Being Your Own Advocate: Findings From the Novice Art Teacher Study

• In Event: Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: First Annual Arts and Learning Poster Session

Abstract

The first tenuous years of an art teacher’s career pose challenges that are unique to the realm of teaching. It has been well documented that reflective practice is crucial to new teacher development and success. This paper aims to address both the complex and noteworthy experiences of novice art teachers and identify relevant and visual tools for reflection. Data was collected from six novice art teachers during the 2015-2017 school years including weekly video logs, observations, imagery, and interviews. Findings suggest that advocacy is central to the new art teacher experience. Four major themes also emerged: Classroom and materials management, student behavior management, artwork as evidence, and top-down uncontrollables. Implications are presented for novice teacher reflection and teacher education curriculum.

Author

• Stephanie Autumn Baer, Miami University - Oxford