You Have to Know It to Teach It: Preparing Middle-Level Teacher Candidates to Better Engage Young Adolescents With Technology—A Cognitive Apprenticeship Model

• In Event: 34.079 - Roundtable Session 14
  In Roundtable Session: 34.079-14 - Preparing Teachers for Middle-Level Classrooms

Abstract

Many teacher candidates lack personal experiences with classroom-based technology integration, hindering their ability to effectively teach and learn with technology. In this study, a core middle level education methods course was infused with technology (e.g. Web 2.0 tools) through a cognitive apprenticeship. The purpose was to investigate the impact of this apprenticeship on middle level candidates. Action research methodology was employed, using pre- and post-course surveys, observations, work products, and reflections as data. Upon course completion, candidates indicated greater interest in using and learning technology, perceived efficacy using technology, and demonstrated improvement when identifying appropriate technology for teaching young adolescents. This study offers insights for infusing middle level education courses via a cognitive apprenticeship model.

Authors

• Nicole C. Miller, Mississippi State University

• Nicole L. Thompson, Arizona State University

• Kathleen Marie Alley, Mississippi State University