Diversity Dialogues: Online Discussions to Encourage the Adoption of Characteristics of Inclusive Teachers

• In Event: Online Pedagogies in Teacher Education

Abstract

This case study addresses the need for models of enhancing reflection in online teacher preparation coursework. Using online discussion activities, referred to as Diversity Dialogues, teacher candidates’ self-reflection on their biases and their adoption of the characteristics of inclusive teachers were explored. The features of the discussion prompts that appeared to guide teacher candidates in reflecting on the barriers students from marginalized groups may experience when educated in traditional classrooms and their own role in addressing such barriers was examined. Despite challenges with developing meaningful online discussion activities, teacher candidates can be encouraged to self-reflect and to adopt the characteristics of inclusive teaching by paying careful attention to the proximity, subject, and sensitivity of the topic in the discussion prompts.

Authors

• Andrea Golloher, San José State University

• Ellen Middaugh, San Jose State University