Expanding Teacher Education Through Relational University-Community Partnerships

• In Event: Diversity and Equity in School Partnerships, Teacher Residencies, and Internships

Abstract

This paper critically explores university-community partnerships as a means of expanding professionalism in teacher education. The discussion focuses on partnership ‘spaces’ off-campus, not just in the physical sense of linking town and gown, but also the relational ways that develop collaborative approaches to teaching, research and learning. Insights are presented from two case studies using a reflexive practice lens. Drawing on a range of qualitative data, two distinct themes are presented (1) disruption through partnership; (2) reflexive practice for critical engagement. Extending opportunities into wider society (acknowledged as being in a perpetual state of change), is thus presented as an ideal space within which to prepare for unknowns and connect with diverse communities.

Author

• Ailbhe Kenny, Mary Immaculate College