Exploring Use of Primary Sources From Puerto Rico to Foster Preservice Teachers' Culturally Responsive Teaching

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: Developing Innovative Programs to Develop Preservice Teachers’ Attitudes Toward Diversity

Abstract

Through a collaboration between a university in the Southeast U.S. and a university in Puerto Rico, the researchers explored the use of primary sources to challenge mainstream assumptions and views of Puerto Rico and support application of the content and pedagogic approaches into early childhood and elementary classrooms among PSTs working in schools in a region with a growing Puerto Rican population due to the diaspora. The researchers investigated how PSTs’ approaches to culturally responsive teaching influenced their positioning of curricular and pedagogical choices in the selection and application of primary sources as part of instruction. Based on the findings, the researchers concluded that systemic changes within teacher education courses and programs are necessary to develop CRT preservice teachers. 

Authors

• Ilene R. Berson, University of South Florida

• Michael J. Berson, University of South Florida

• Annette G. Lopez De Mendez, University of Puerto Rico