Teaching Your Truths: Archaeology of Self as a Tool in Teacher Education

• In Event: Leveraging Teacher Identities: Telling Truths and Reconstructing Our Stories

Abstract

This presentation explores how teacher candidates use "archaeology of self" to examine their personal histories and its impact on their teaching practices, aiming to disrupt racial tensions in education. Analyzing weekly narratives from candidates in a preparation course, this case study addresses the question: "How do teacher candidates explore their racialized, linguistic, and educator identities using archaeology of self?" Utilizing Sealy-Ruiz’s framework, stories from thirteen candidates were collected and analyzed, revealing the connection between language, race, ethnicity, and their evolving identities. The findings highlight the importance of reflecting on personal experiences to enhance pedagogical practices and support culturally responsive teaching, enabling candidates to understand their biases and develop a more inclusive teaching approach.

Authors

• Sandra Lucia Osorio, Erikson Institute

• Ja'Re Thorn, Erikson Institute

• Lilly Padia, Erikson Institute

• Meghan L. Green, Erikson Institute