Educators' Perceptions of Middle-Level Education in a State Without a Middle-Level Teacher Credential

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: Educational Change in Support of Every Young Adolescent

Abstract

California does not offer a middle level teacher credential, despite researchers’ calls for specialized preparation of middle grades teachers. Using AMLE’s essential attributes and characteristics of successful middle schools, we conducted a survey to investigate the current state of middle level education in California. We analyzed data collected from 48 educators. We found that the majority did not take specialized middle level courses, but they understood young adolescents’ developmental needs. The most approved characteristics were common to schools at all levels, while the least recognized characteristics were specific to middle grades. Overall, the participants considered the current state of middle grade education or teacher workforce inadequate. The findings have significant implications for middle level education and teacher credentialing policy.

Authors

• Benjamin Seipel, CSU, Chico

• Rong-Ji Chen, California State University - San Marcos

• Erika D. Daniels, California State University - San Marcos

• Acacia Warren, University of California - Irvine

• Roxanne Greitz Miller, Chapman University