Unpacking the Isolation of Rural Science Teachers

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session Eight
  In Roundtable Session: From Isolation to Pipelines: STEM Opportunities in Rural Places (Table 8)

Abstract

This study seeks to better understand the isolation of rural science teachers in terms of their collaborative ties with other rural science teachers and their sense of belonging within their communities using social network analysis (SNA). Our findings indicate that the vast majority of science teachers are extremely isolated with no consistent collaborative ties. These findings show unequivocally the professional isolation of teachers as well as some of the dynamics for teachers who live and work in rural communities. Collaborating with others to improve teaching and to meet state standards, as well as considerations for teacher well-being and other issues, is challenging and any mechanisms to provide support must be grounded in a clear picture of teaching networks and relationships.

Authors

• Tracy Poulsen, Brigham Young University
  Presenting Author

• Erin Feinauer Whiting, Brigham Young University
  Non-Presenting Author