Some Students Were Shadows: Understanding Teachers' Experiences and Professional Knowledge of Trauma (Poster 21)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Trauma and Teaching (San Diego)

Abstract

The purpose of this presentation is to explore teachers’ experiences with trauma in the classroom. Since the dual pandemic of racialized violence and COVID-19, it is important to understand how knowledge and understanding of trauma is provided, how school cultures can shift to support students in traumatic situations, and how educators provide these services while also attending to their own mental health. Using a trauma-informed framework and an interactive design method, we conducted focus groups to understand teachers’ background experiences, professional preparation, and professional needs with trauma. Findings reflect that teachers lack professional knowledge about trauma, have concerns about students’ learning loss, observed a greater digital divide, and need support for developing self-care strategies.

Authors

• Angela M. Wiseman, North Carolina State University

• Aaron Arenas, North Carolina State University

• Qiana Cryer-Coupet, North Carolina State University