Journal of Education & Social Policy

Examining Elementary Teacher Candidate Learning Within Early Field Experiences in a Partnership
Dr. Kimberly J. Bohannon, Ed.D.

Abstract
College and University teacher education programs’ partnerships with public schools have been developed to enrich the learning of teacher candidates and support practicing educators. Teacher candidates’ development through early field experiences provides insight into the ways the partnership enhances the translation of theory into practice. This article examines teacher candidates’ experiences and learning in a unique partnership which engages them in coursework and field experiences within the context of the school each semester. This partnership was created with the intention of providing additional resources to the school to allow for a more student-centered approach to instruction. Teacher candidates are also afforded three additional field placements throughout their preparation program. The experiences between twelve, third year teacher candidates who participated in the partnership between a K-8 elementary school and a liberal arts college teacher education program are examined. Findings indicate that early field experiences within a partnership enhance teacher candidate learning.

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