Constructing Theories of Teaching and Learning: The Potential of Qualitative Inquiry for Re-envisioning Teacher Education Programs
Joanne Marie Robertson, Department of Human Services and Counseling, School of Education
Abstract
I present qualitative research data demonstrating the construct of “symbolic representation,” and draw implications for teacher education programs, staff development models, and alternative models of student assessment and evaluation. I will share the “think pieces” created by teachers in the Masters in Literacy Program, and discuss the ways they defined and visually represented their theories of teaching and learning. I will highlight portions of their reflective writings that illustrate the processing involved in envisioning and constructing their pieces, and discuss the ways the transformational properties of the art materials supported conceptualization, concretized thinking, and promoted critical literacy development.