Examining Pedagogical Care in Middle School Methods

• In Event: Relational Teacher Education, Care, and Humanizing Pedagogies Through Self-Study

Abstract

This self-study focuses on the examination of pedagogical care, i.e., the actions and behaviors that acknowledge and support students’ emotional and intellectual development in the classroom (Hawk & Lyons, 2008). The study’s primary data consist of syllabi and lesson plans for a middle school methods course from two semesters. Preliminary analysis shows that communication and course structure have become more directly supportive of students over the last five years, aligning with a student-centered, constructivist learning environment. The need to listen to students, think critically about enactments of care, create a caring classroom, and connect care to life beyond the classroom (Noddings, 2012) hold implications for teacher educators seeking to develop pedagogical care in the classroom.

Author

• Melanie Shoffner, James Madison University
  Presenting Author