Exploring Reflective Thinking Among Preservice Teachers in a Virtual Learning Community

• In Event: 32.068 - Portfolios and Reflection in Teacher Education: User Perceptions, Assessments, and Cultural Implications

Abstract

Many reflective experiences focus on aspects of performance in a teaching episode. We assert the need for reflection sooner, prior to student teaching. In this naturalistic study, we examined the reflective thinking of pre-service teachers (PSTs) in an introductory curriculum, instruction, and technology course as they engaged in an online community. Our framework considers both reflective thinking as revealed through individual posts to the community and dialogical interaction between PSTs as they comment on posts. Our research identified three themes in PST reflection: I am a Student, I am a Teacher, I am a Reflective Practitioner. While PSTs were less likely to engage in critical dialogical interactions, we suggest engaging in an online community represents an innovative process for reflection.

Authors

• Libbi Miller, Humboldt State University

• Frederick Peinado Nelson, California State University - Fresno

• Emy Lopez Phillips, California State University, Fresno