Planning for Literacy Instruction: An Evaluation of Online Resources Used by Preservice Teachers

• In Event: 45.092 - MTCC Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: 45.092-12 - Teacher Attitudes and Approaches in Literacy Education

Abstract

This study examined the types of online resources preservice teachers use for their literacy instruction and whether the identified online resources include research-based instructional approaches. An anonymous online survey was distributed to preservice teachers enrolled in a literacy education course. Online resources identified by study participants (N=77) were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative methods. Results reveal that the participants use a mix of research-based professional resources, popular search engines, and content-sharing networks. Reasons for use include: accessibility and convenience, content variety, visual aesthetics, literacy content, and source credibility. This research has implications for teacher educators, associate teachers, and educational institutions who are often the first to disseminate information to preservice teachers about effective literacy practices.

Author

• Pamela Beach, Queen's University