Mentor Teacher Stories: It's a Relationship, Not a Role

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Examining and Supporting the Role of Mentor Teachers

Abstract

The relationship between pre-service teacher candidates and their mentor teachers has been defined by roles that mentors play in the relationship, but little is known about how the relationship develops, or the misalignment between expectations and reality. This narrative inquiry study explored how a mentor teacher experienced the relationship with a pre-service teacher candidate, comparing the relationship to the elements of a story. Findings demonstrate connections between the teaching candidate’s perceived personality traits or abilities and the mentor teacher’s willingness to engage in a relationship. This study informs teacher preparation programs how to mitigate disruptive emotions, outlines steps to communicate expectations, and confirms the importance of attending to the beginning of this relationship.

Author

• Serena Morales, Boise State University