The Power of Collaboration: Strengthening Teaching Through Video Analysis of Mentor Coaching

• In Event: Practices Related to Teacher Candidates in Professional Development Schools

Abstract

As part of our partnership with a school that serves students with reading difficulties, we partner preservice teachers with mentor teachers who assist them in learning to teach through “in the moment” coaching as the preservice teachers instruct the students. This research took place over two semesters. We explored a mentor teacher’s feedback during “in the moment” coaching, conducted interviews with two preservice teachers and the mentor teacher, viewed videos, and observed in the classroom. Findings indicated unfocused feedback is detrimental to preservice teachers. Additionally, evidence suggests that video-analysis by the mentor teacher was a powerful tool for change. As a result of the analysis, the mentor teacher used a more targeted approach when coaching preservice teachers in the classroom.

Authors

• Rebecca Lovering Powell, Florida Southern College

• Lori Rakes, Florida Southern College

• Sarah Anderson, Florida Southern College