Preservice Teachers' Transformative Learning Experiences in Working With Families

• In Event: 34.041 - Community-Based Field Experiences for Preservice Teachers

Abstract

This qualitative study focused on preservice teachers’ (PSTs’) transformative learning experiences from direct involvement with children and families in a local childcare program. Forty-eight undergraduate PSTs participated in a traditional or immersive class. PSTs in the traditional course completed assignments and exams. PSTs in the immersive course completed the same assignments, but did not take the exams. Instead, the immersive PSTs implemented two family events and created a space for families in the childcare program. The results of this study suggest that PSTs will demonstrate signs of transformative learning when provided opportunities to work directly with families as part of their educational program.

Authors

• Linda Taylor, Ball State University

• Kyoung Jin Kim, Wheelock College