Search results for: Group discussions

This article describes the development of a portfolio process based upon digital photographs taken to document the first teaching practicum of student teachers. This portfolio process was implemented solely for the purpose of enhancing learning through professional reflection. The authors argue that one of the strengths of portfolios is the potential for the inclusion of authentic evidence. However, viewed from this perspective the original portfolio process did not appear to be achieving the intended high level of authenticity. Furthermore, the portfolio process intended to promote self-reflection and the self-awareness that arose from genuine reflection. However, students’ selection justifications frequently appeared to be based upon the external judgement and feedback comments made by academic staff.

This study had two purposes. First, it aimed to provide an analysis of the types of questions teachers use to promote thinking, problem-solving and reasoning in their students. Second, it aimed to provide an analysis of the types of discourse the students used to problem-solve and reason during their small group discussions. The results showed that the teachers used a range of questioning strategies from those that probed for information and challenged children’s perspectives to those higher-level questions that required children to provide reasons, make connections or think meta-cognitively.

The article describes an investigation on the use of literature as part of the teacher preparation process which probed the impact of book talks on teacher candidates' attitudes toward people with disabilities. The study took place in a private college in western New York. Forty undergraduate teacher candidates in 4-year special education certification program participated in the study. Qualitative analysis revealed that the assignment influenced an increase in positive attitudes toward individuals with disabilities reflecting insight, empathy, and respect.

This article presents a study in which teachers describe the working situation at their school. The goal of the study was to find out in what respects the school needed to be developed. This was a case study and the method for collecting data was focus group dialogues.