Trauma-Informed Teaching Perspectives of Art and Non-Art Educators: A Mixed-Methods Study for Transformational Change

• In Event: AERA Graduate Student Research-in-Progress Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Research on Teacher and School Leader Preparation: Alternative Certification, Intercultural Competencies, Retention, and Emergency Management (Table 13)

Abstract

This study answers the overarching research question: To what extent are PA educators prepared to recognize and respond to students impacted by trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)? This question is explored in this mixed methods action research on the preparedness of k-12 educators' perspectives within one school district in Pennsylvania. This study advocates for reflexivity among teachers by evaluating perspectives from educator participants across one school district combined with anecdotal evidence from a subgroup of art teachers. This study addresses trends in teacher perceptions of trauma and preparedness to understand and heal trauma through the arts disciplines.

Author

• Anne C. Shrawder, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania