Doin' Diversity in Teacher Education: Beginning Black Teacher Experiences Studying Diversity in Teacher Education

• In Event: 28.054 - Whose Truth Matters? Centering the Voices and Experiences of Preservice and In-Service Teachers of Color

Abstract

Though the prevailing discourse in teacher education celebrates diversity and social justice, the translation of this discourse into coursework and curriculum may be less acknowledged, especially in ways that are responsive to the needs, and development of Black teachers. This presentation reports findings from a qualitative study of Black teacher counter-discourses related to their learning in courses focused on diversity, multiculturalism, and social justice. Drawing on critical race theory, portraiture methodology, and zoom model analysis, findings from two life history interviews with five novice Black teachers revealed a distinctive teacher preparation discourse when studying issues of diversity and social justice in education that alienated participants.

Author

• Melanie M. Acosta, Florida Atlantic University