A Rural Education Teacher Preparation Program: Course Design, Student Support, and Engagement

• In Event: 54.075 - Considering Place in Rural Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Attracting and retaining teachers for rural and remote areas is a pervasive global problem. Currently, teacher education in Canada is primarily delivered in face-to-face formats located in urban centres or satellite campuses. There has long been a need for relevant and responsive teacher education programs for rural pre-service teachers. Recognizing this need, one university has responded by creating a Community-based Bachelor of Education program targeting rural students who reside beyond the reach of these campuses. This paper explores the inaugural year of this innovative program, the only one of its kind in Canada.
Key words: Pre-service teacher education, rural education

Authors

• Sarah Elaine Eaton, University of Calgary

• Dianne Gereluk, University of Calgary

• Roswita Dressler, University of Calgary

• Sandra Becker, Univeristy of Calgary