Identifying the Scope and Nature of Teacher Education "Generalist" Scholars

• In Event: 15.061 - MTCC Roundtable Session Two
  In Roundtable Session: 15.061-4 - (Always) Under Construction: Rethinking Teacher Education Programs and Structures

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to understand the ever-changing work of “generalist” teacher educators in research intensive institutions. Specifically, the focus is to understand the scope and nature of teacher educators’ work within the current context of teacher education reform highlighting the centrality of clinical practice and partnerships with K-12 schools. Data collection included website analysis, a questionnaire, and interviews. Findings speak to the preparation, scope and nature, identity, and challenges generalist teacher educators face within their contexts. The findings have implications for the doctoral preparation of future teacher educators who cannot only engage in clinical practice but also engage in research within these spaces.

Authors

• Jennifer Jacobs, University of South Florida

• Rebecca West Burns, University of South Florida

• Samantha Haraf, University of South Florida - Tampa

• Amber L. MacDonald, University of South Florida

• Jennifer Iris Perez, University of South Florida - Tampa

• Jennifer McCorvey, University of Southern Florida