Exploring the Roles, Tensions, and Training of University Supervisors

• In Event: 28.089 - MTCC Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: 28.089-2 - Focusing on the Supervisor and Mentor in Field Experiences for Preservice Teachers

Abstract

This case study of university supervisors at a Research I institution examined supervisors’ roles, tensions enacting their roles, and training supports through a liminal space and organizational support framework. Data sources included a survey of program supervisors, follow up interviews, interviews with program administrators, and document analysis of program documents and supervisors’ lesson observation forms. The study found that supervisors mostly embody the instructional coaching and counselor/mentor roles, and the evaluator role is the primary source of tension for supervisors. Due to an overall lack of training, the findings of this study suggest important implications for organizational supports for supervisors to promote supervisor professionalization and the development of teacher educator identities.

Author

• Sarah Capello, Judson University