Date of Award
8-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Executive Leadership
First Supervisor
Dr. Marie Cianca
Second Supervisor
Dr. Gina Ditullio
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine teacher preparation programs and the extent to which teachers and higher education instructors perceived teachers’ readiness to teach middle school students. Additionally, the study investigated how much teachers are learning about adolescent development in their preparation programs. The study focused on middle level teachers and higher education instructors in the Western New York region. This examination of teacher preparation for middle level students used the Framework for Effective Middle Level Practices as the theoretical focus. The findings highlighted a lack of specialized middle level teacher preparation programs, leading to underprepared teachers. Additionally, participants expressed feelings of inadequacy in understanding effective structures for middle-level schools and classrooms, noting that they acquire most of their practical knowledge on the job. The study recommends continuous learning opportunities for teachers, allocation of funds by school districts for professional development, and the establishment of specialized middle level programs in teacher preparation courses. This research sets the stage for future studies on middle level certification courses and suggests exploring teacher preparation in other states for a broader understanding.
Recommended Citation
Washington, Deborah, "Examining the Adolescent Student and Middle Level Teacher Preparation Programs: Perspectives of Novice Middle Level Educators and Higher Education Instructors" (2024). Education Doctoral. Paper 596.
https://fisherpub.sjf.edu/education_etd/596
Please note that the Recommended Citation provides general citation information and may not be appropriate for your discipline. To receive help in creating a citation based on your discipline, please visit http://libguides.sjfc.edu/citations.