Using an Instructional Coach Framework to Positively Impact the Student Teaching Experience

• In Event: Strengthening the Interactions Between Mentor and Preservice Teacher

Abstract

This study examined a reimagined student teaching experience that utilized an Instructional Coaching Framework (ICF) to improve cooperating teachers’ mentoring skills. The ICF developed cooperating teachers as instructional coaches who then provided turn-around training for new cooperating teachers. An independent samples t-test compared perceptions of the ICF student teaching experience for student teacher-cooperating teacher dyads with a comparison group as measured by the Coaching Relationship Questionnaire. Regardless of training level cooperating teachers were highly rated by student teachers. Furthermore, student teacher-instructional coach dyads had more closely aligned perceptions of the student teaching experience as compared to non-ICF dyads, suggesting that stronger relationships were fostered as a result of the intervention. Implications for student teacher support are discussed.

Authors

• Thomas Robert Conway, Cabrini University

• Greer M. Richardson, La Salle University

• Alana Mellor, La Salle University

• Allison Magagnosc, Research for Better Schools at PHMC