Dispositions for Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Teacher Preparation

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Examining Effective Instructional Practices, and Dispositions for Culturally Relevant Pedagogy

Abstract

Teacher preparation plays a vital role in developing candidate dispositions for culturally responsive pedagogy (CRP). This study begins with an analysis of literature focused on teacher dispositions for CRP. Given the well documented cultural disconnect between White teachers and a growing population of students of color, the researcher links teacher disposition literature to White Racial Identity theory. Qualitative findings from an investigation into two cohorts of candidates end of program dispositions for CRP conducted in one small teacher preparation program are shared. Three significant dispositions were uncovered: A disposition for community dialogue, a disposition for praxis, and a disposition for social justice. Increasingly complex rationales for entering the teaching profession were also significant.

Author

• Kristina Marie Valtierra, Colorado College