Rich Conversations and Data from an Original Board Game on Co-Teaching

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Collaborative Approaches for Inclusive Education

Abstract

This presentation shares research done on a board game that was specifically designed to improve communication and collaboration among co-teachers. The game was developed over the course of 10 years of work with co-teachers in inclusive classrooms. Interviews and observational data were collected from 45 participants who played the game. The focus of the game is to have players reflect on their deep purposes for teaching and to brainstorm challenges and opportunities specific to co-teaching environments. Our research focused on thematically examining the major issues that arise when considering successful co-teaching. Our analysis concluded with six themes ranging from emotional sensitivity, prioritizing student experience, and identifying difficulties outside of the classroom.

Authors

• Chris Shamburg, New Jersey City University

• Laura Zieger, New Jersey City University

• Dana L. Mason, New Jersey City University

• Patricia Dennis, Orange Public Schools

• Caralee Gately, Washington Township Public Schools

• Jacqueline Zamora, Jersey City Board of Education