A Practicum Mentoring Model for Supporting Prospective Elementary Teachers in Learning to Teach Mathematics

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Bibliographic Details
Title: A Practicum Mentoring Model for Supporting Prospective Elementary Teachers in Learning to Teach Mathematics
Language: English
Authors: Lin, Pi-Jen (ORCID 0000-0003-0560-4842), Acosta-Tello, Enid
Source: ZDM: The International Journal on Mathematics Education. May 2017 49(2):223-236.
Availability: Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 14
Publication Date: 2017
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Elementary Education
Descriptors: Mentors, Preservice Teachers, Elementary School Mathematics, Mathematics Teachers, Teacher Education Programs, Mathematics Instruction, Pretests Posttests, Models
DOI: 10.1007/s11858-016-0829-1
ISSN: 1863-9690
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to design and implement a practicum mentoring model to support prospective teachers as they learn to teach mathematics within a teacher education program. The context of this report on the practicum with an innovative mentoring model consisted of a pair of prospective teachers learning to teach mathematics from one mentor, an expert in teaching mathematics, while they also leaned to teach Chinese from the other mentor, an expert in teaching Chinese. Ten prospective teachers enrolled in a mathematics mastery mentoring program were the target population. Data sources included the following: surveys, pre- and post-tests, self-evaluations, teaching demonstrations and portfolios. Results indicate that the mentoring model created more and better opportunities for prospective teachers to enhance their expertise in teaching mathematics. Contributing factors appeared to be: (1) a well-structured practicum with clear goals; (2) the emotional and professional support from mentors for their prospective teachers; (3) meeting the needs and concerns of prospective teachers; (4) the mentors' level of expertise in teaching and mentoring; and (5) creating a close partnership between the university and the school, leading to the close mentorship between the mentors and prospective teachers, providing guidance for mentors from professors. The implications for teacher education programs are addressed.
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 28
Entry Date: 2017
Accession Number: EJ1138354
Database: ERIC
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