ERIC Number: EJ855986
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Sep
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1052-0147
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Why We Teach: Autobiographies of Traditionally and Alternatively Certified Pre-Service Social Studies Teachers
Santoli, Susan
Qualitative Report, v14 n3 p478-488 Sep 2009
This study describes the analysis of the social studies autobiographies of 46 students compiled over a 15 month period. Two major questions were addressed: (1) what motivational patterns are revealed in these autobiographies and (2) what differences and similarities exist in the autobiographies of students seeking alternative and traditional certification. Both groups noted the influence of family and other significant adults, and the influence of social studies teachers, both K-12 and postsecondary, in their decisions to pursue social studies teaching careers. There were more similarities than differences between the two groups. The autobiographies echoed influences that are found in the literature, and reveal that active learning opportunities and inspiring teachers are important in motivating students to pursue careers in social studies education.
Descriptors: Autobiographies, Preservice Teachers, Career Choice, Social Studies, Alternative Teacher Certification, Motivation, Family Influence, Teacher Influence, Active Learning, Differences
Nova Southeastern University. 3301 College Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317. Tel: 954-262-5389; Fax: 954-262-3970; Web site: http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education; Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A