Becoming Social Justice, Culturally Sustaining Educators: Career Changer Pathways in Teacher Education

• In Event: Radical Imagination and Collective Disruption: Reimagining Teacher Education through Community Partnerships

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the development of career-changing, pre-service teachers in an introductory course in learning, development and culture focusing on their understanding of culturally sustaining pedagogies, social justice, anti-racism, and equity. The course was designed to support awareness of the role of culture and identity in learning and development. Seventeen graduate career-changing pre-service teachers were included in this study. They all participated in critical reflective practices and discussions and completed assignments focused on learning and development theories through an equity and social justice lens. All participants grew in their understanding of the cultural topics and anti-racist pedagogy. Their identities shifted from previous professions to social justice educators. This demonstrates the unique needs of career-changing educators.

Author

• Ani C. Moughamian-Rosenberg, Saint Mary's College of California