Supporting Ethnic Studies Preservice Teachers of Color: Developing Professional Communication Skills Through Mixed-Reality Simulations

• In Event: Talking Truth: Teachers of Color, Ethnic Studies, and Multilingual Learners in U.S. and Transnational Education Contexts

Abstract

This study examined the written reflections of secondary preservice teachers (PSTs) of Color after participating in a Mixed Reality Simulation (MRS) in an ethnic studies methods course. The study’s purpose was to help teacher education programs understand the importance of teaching communication strategies to support the retention of ethnic studies teachers (of Color). The MRS simulated a parent-teacher meeting with an anti-Critical Race Theory parent. Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted of the data. Findings indicate the PSTs’: (1)Attitudes shifted from nervousness before the simulation, to frustration, to gaining some confidence after the simulation; (2)Learned to shift the discussion from being defensive, to referring to their adherence to state/curricular expectations as teaching professionals; and (3)Saw the benefit of the MRS experience.

Author

• Heather Macías, California State University - Long Beach