Mentoring Social Studies Teachers: Teaching, Learning, and Experiencing the Politics of Fear

• In Event: 21.061 - MTCC Roundtable Session Five
  In Roundtable Session: 21.061-9 - Mentoring in Teacher Education: Preservice

Abstract

Given the recent “anti-democratic,” “fascist,” and “nationalist” perspectives pervading our social rhetoric and consciousness, pre-service social studies teachers are increasingly concerned with how to negotiate divisive political issues and ideologies through their pedagogical practice. This study examines how critical mentorship with pre-service social studies teacher might help them understand and teach about these challenging and politically charged ideas. During this study students worked with a faculty mentor prior to initial field experiences in a teacher education program. Together the mentor and mentees engaged in activities and discussions designed to deconstruct current and historical instances of political fear and explore teaching perspectives and practices that might help them more confidently address these issues as part of their pedagogy.

Authors

• Kevin Russel Magill, Baylor University

• Brooke Blevins, Baylor University

• Tracy Harper, Baylor University

• Aaron Huang

• Jess Smith, Baylor University