Voices From the Field: Challenges of Supervisors in Clinical Field Experiences

• In Event: 43.078 - MTCC Roundtable Session 16
  In Roundtable Session: 43.078-3 - Understanding Supervision for Preservice Teachers in Diverse Field Experiences

Abstract

The work of clinical faculty, or supervisors, is highly undervalued in the field of teacher education. Recent calls to understand the professional development of teacher educators have motivated researchers to engage in self-study and empirical research to better understand their role in preparing the next generation of teachers. This research rarely focuses on the work of clinical faculty, or supervisors. In response to the call to increase our knowledge and understanding of the work of clinical faculty, or supervisors, this study seeks to amplify their voices by describing the challenges they face in their work. The study reveals that supervisors encounter both instructional and non-instructional challenges, with the non-instructional challenges dominating their work with pre-service teachers.

Author

• Monique C Alexander, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania