Learning About Father Engagement From Fathers: Does It Make a Difference for Future Teachers?

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 11:40 am Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Informing and Improving Preservice and In-Service Teachers' Engagement With Families (Table 8)

Abstract

As part of a larger community-based participatory project on father engagement, this paper explores the effectiveness of a locally created video on father engagement with preservice teachers (n=98). A mixed methods design allowed us to examine changes in preservice teachers’ beliefs about fathers and anticipated behaviors related to fathers through pre- and post-assessment surveys. Paired samples t-tests showed significant changes as a result of the video, with more favorable views of father engagement reported after watching the video, as well as a greater desire to work with fathers in the future. Qualitative data showed similar positive shifts in thinking, along with a new recognition of systemic barriers to involvement. Implications are offered for teacher educators, school professionals, and researchers.

Authors

• Kyle Elizabeth Miller, Illinois State University

• Jordan Arellanes, Illinois State University

• Megan Kybartas, Illinois State University

• Corey Love-Jones, Brightpoint

• Michelle Cope, Bloomington Pubic Library