Scaffolding Inquiry: Guiding Preservice Teachers Down the Path to Discovery

• In Event: 46.080 - Supervision in Preservice Teacher Education: Supporting Teacher Professional Learning and Development

Abstract

How can field supervisors scaffold the inquiry process for preservice teachers? This paper will discuss the results of a practitioner inquiry in which preservice teachers’ (PSTs’) initial foray into inquiry was scaffolded with the goal of engaging the PSTs in inquiry in a way which helped them to internalize its importance and assume an inquiry stance moving forward in their professional education. Results indicate that preservice teachers need support to understand the importance of inquiry, modeling in how to navigate the process, and opportunities to collaborate during inquiry in order to recognize its value as a tool for professional growth.

Author

• Sarah E. Pennington, Montana State University