Life/Family History as an Instructional Tool for Preservice Teachers

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: The Biographical and Documentary Research Poster Session

Abstract

This paper explores life/family history research as an instructional tool for preservice teachers at a midwestern regional public university. Specifically, the researchers take a close look at a cultural autobiography assignment for undergraduate students in their own classes. We report that life/family history research has the potential to promote critical reflections on one’s own position in a complex interplay of power relations. Some middle class white preservice teachers used the assignment to identify their own privileges and the instances of disadvantages to empathize with their future marginalized students. On the other hand, other students pictured themselves as the heroes who overcame challenges which can be used to blame their future students for the difficulties to succeed in schools.

Authors

• Jayne R. Beilke, Ball State University

• Gilbert C. Park, Ball State University

• Aaron Charles Bruewer, University of the District of Columbia