It’s a Learning Curve: The Role of Teacher Lifecycle Theory in Bolstering Early Career Teacher Resilience

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 11:40 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Supporting Preservice and Early Career Teacher Learning and Development (Table 3)

Abstract

The novice teacher learning curve is often stressful. This study offers teacher educators and mentors reliable approaches to help new teachers understand the learning curve through the lens of teacher lifecycle theory. I share how a field-tested teacher lifecycle workshop series contributed to the resilience of preservice through third-year teachers. Qualitative findings suggest that a diverse cohort of 22 workshop participants recognized that learning to teach is a process that requires patience and community. This study suggests that making the teacher lifecycle visible—especially early career development—bolstered novice teachers’ resilience. This is important because resilience is essential for career satisfaction and can mitigate early career exit, which systematically harms students and entire school systems.

Author

• Kristina M. Valtierra, Colorado College