Instruction as Learner-Centered, Responsive, Improvisational Practice: Possibilities and Pushbacks

Session Submission Type: Alternative Format Session

Abstract

Participants will explore instruction as responsive/improvisational practice to challenge recent policies leading toward de-professionalizing teaching (e.g., mandated scripted curricula). First we present four studies in which this approach was met with acceptance and resistance. Then participants will engage in interactive inquiry identifying barriers and ways to mitigate such resistance to this approach. We aim to develop shared understandings and to discuss possibilities for bringing this new understanding to our work as researchers and teacher educators.

Content Area

• Area 3: Literacy Instruction and Literacy Learning

Individual Presentations

• In-service Teachers’ Professional Development as Responsive Tutors - Melanie Reaves, Northern Michigan University; Beth Billie, Northern Michigan University

• Balancing/Negotiating “Best Practice” and Accountability - Melanie Reaves, Northern Michigan University; Amanda Sanders, University of Wyomng; George Kamberelis, Colorado State University

• Explorations of the Roles of Culture, Community, and Religion in a Belizean/American Teaching Partnership - Jean Kirshner, Colorado State University

• Teachers’ Meaning Making from Classroom Events as Discipline-d Improvisations - Christi Edge, Northern Michigan University