Exploring Learners’ Perspectives on Team Teaching: A Mixed-Method Study of Their Perceptions in Elementary Schools

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 11:40 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Educational Processes: Mixed-Methods Research Approaches to Understanding What Matters (Table 5)

Abstract

This mixed method study delves into learners’ perceptions of the effectiveness of their teachers’ teaching behavior and the benefits and challenges experienced during team teaching in elementary educational settings. Analyzing survey data from 428 learners and data from 15 focus groups, overall results indicate that the dimensions of ‘learning climate’ and ‘clear instruction’ are most frequently observed in classroom practices by learners. Furthermore, learners perceive ‘learning gains’ and ‘increased support’ as most beneficial. However, confusion does arise, and large class sizes are a disruptive factor that leads to more noise. Multilevel analysis further reveals that learners who are taught in team teaching within a single class reported significantly higher scores on the dimensions of teaching behavior and ‘increased support’.

Authors

• Dries Mariën, Antwerp University

• Ruben Vanderlinde, Ghent University

• Elke Struyf, University of Antwerp