Teacher Educators: Course Experiences of Bachelor of Education Primary Students

Australian Association for Research in Education. AARE Secretariat, One Geils Court, Deakin ACT 2600, Australia. Tel: +61-2-6285-8388; e-mail: aare@aare.edu.au; Web site: http://www1.aare.edu.au

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10

Foreign Countries; Bachelors Degrees; Preservice Teachers; Student Teacher Attitudes; Student Experience; Catholic Schools; Elementary School Teachers; Feedback (Response); Focus Groups; Online Surveys; Teacher Characteristics; Teaching Methods; Cooperative Learning; Independent Study; Grading; Test Length; Evaluation Methods; Educational Technology; Technology Integration; Lecture Method; Course Content; Teacher Student Relationship; Student School Relationship; Student Needs; Student Personnel Services; Academic Support Services; Self Concept; Influences

1324-9320

This investigation examined the course experiences of Bachelor of Education Primary students across each year of the course. The aims of the study were to identify gaps in what we know about our students; to identify relevant domains in student experiences and to assist with course improvements. A reflective inquiry paradigm was adopted for students to give feedback on their course experience as key stakeholders. A mixed methods approach was used to examine participants' reflections on their course experiences. The emphasis was on an analysis of the students' reflections of their experiences and their online responses. The research was designed to engage participants in processes for twenty first century learning using technology that could be replicated in the field. The online survey items were developed through focus group discussions with volunteer students reflecting about their previous years' experiences. Focus group participants were encouraged to identify their positive, negative and interesting experiences through completing a "PMI" template prior to the focus group discussion. Each cohort in Years 1, 2, 3, and 4 were invited to complete the anonymous online survey. The findings provided insights into relevant domains of student experiences for those requiring improvements as well as those operating effectively. (Contains 10 tables.)

As Provided

10

2014

ED544482