Poster #72 - University–Informal Education Institution Partnerships for Teacher Education

• In Event: 79.052 - MTCC Poster Session 19
  In Poster Session: 79.052-8 - Informal Learning Environments Research Poster Session

Abstract

One of the underutilized resources for teacher preparation is Informal Education Institutions (IEI), such as museums, aquariums, planetariums, etc.  Some scholars believe that successful partnerships between universities and local IEIs are important for the future of teacher education (McKinnon & Lamberts, 2014; Kisiel & Anderson, 2010). Yet, there is little research to guide practice in this area (Center for Future of Museums, 2014; Buys & Bursnall, 2007). The purpose of this study is to add to the literature base reporting on university – IEI partnerships developed specifically to support initial teacher preparation. This study reveals the inner workings of a unique partnership between a university and six IEI institutions and encourages open communication and further research around these types of partnerships. 

Authors

• Jenna Sanei, Concordia University - Chicago

• Lara Smetana, Loyola University Chicago