Preservice Teachers Imagine the Risk of Engaging in Discussions of Race

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Being Brave: Exploring Diversity, Equity, and Race in Teacher Education (Table 38)

Abstract

Diversity in education is being challenged at both the local and state level (Cihlar, 2022; Majewska & Freeder, 2022). Classroom teachers are being restricted from teaching and discussing the history of racism and its effect on our society. This study utilizes vignettes as a tool for preservice teachers to begin explore what risks they would be willing to take to engage in discussions of race with different stakeholders at a school setting. Findings suggest preservice do see risk in addressing race which may lead to social retaliation or dismissal from their teaching position. However, the participants in this study feel risks are worth taking to improve their students educational experience and the school environment they are working in.

Author

• Katelyn Durham, Auburn University