ERIC Number: EJ759680
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Jul
Pages: 11
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0742-051X
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
The Impact of a Field Immersion Program on Pre-Service Teachers' Attitudes toward Teaching in Culturally Diverse Classrooms
Wiggins, Robert A.; Follo, Eric J.; Eberly, Mary B.
Teaching and Teacher Education: An International Journal of Research and Studies, v23 n5 p653-663 Jul 2007
Understanding of community, and a positive attitude toward cultural diversity are critical components in the preparation of teachers. This study sought to influence both, through on-site coursework and a long-term field placement at a culturally diverse urban elementary school. Participants were predominately single, white females from suburban communities. Questionnaire responses suggest that this immersion program improved the attitudes of these pre-service teachers. Findings support the idea that a targeted field placement, support from peers and teachers, and meaningful coursework facilitates the preparation of culturally responsive teachers--even for those with little or no prior experience in culturally diverse communities.
Descriptors: Cultural Pluralism, Females, Suburbs, Immersion Programs, Preservice Teacher Education, Student Teacher Attitudes, Consciousness Raising, Whites, Cultural Differences, Urban Schools, Field Experience Programs, Student Diversity, Elementary School Students
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A