"I'm Still in the Middle of My Feelings": Preparing Students for the Real World

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Division K Section 3 Poster 1

Abstract

This presentation describes a teacher education classroom practice designed to engage teacher candidates in difficult but productive discussions around complex issues they will likely encounter as novice teachers. The purpose of doing so was to create tensions in which productive struggle can occur. The findings from the study indicate teacher candidates experienced increased assuredness, awareness, and apprehension following the engagements. We argue the tensions inherent in these contradictory feelings can serve to increase their efficacy for dealing with tough situations in their future classrooms.

Authors

• Jackie Sydnor, Ball State University

• Tammi R. Davis, Missouri State University

• Sharon Daley, Indiana University - Bloomington