The Development of Aggression Management Competence in Preservice Teachers: An Exploratory Pilot Study

• In Event: 79.039 - Preservice Teachers Training: Developing Competence and Perceptions of Classroom Management in Preservice Teachers

Abstract

The ability to respond appropriately to aggression in the classroom is crucial to the establish and maintain a safe learning environment. Research indicates that this competence remains underdeveloped during initial teacher education. This exploratory paper tried to (1) map the aggression management competence of pre-service teachers and (2) investigate the impact of online clinical simulations on this competence. Students watched video-clips of simulated classroom situations where aggressive behaviour occurred. Qualitative data analysis focused on answers students gave during the simulations. Responses were coded based on a rubric and a paired-samples t-test was conducted. Results indicate that the aggression management competence of pre-service teachers is underdeveloped and that online clinical simulations have a positive impact on the mastery of this competence.

Authors

• Delphine Franco, Ghent University

• Martin M. Valcke, Ghent University