Social Foundations in Teacher Education: A Contemporary Snapshot

Abstract

Abstract. Over the past several decades, changes in the nature of the teacher training and the expectations of schools have resulted in changes to the curriculum at the university level. Within the scope of pre-service training, there have historically been courses in social foundations, methods and assessment, and finally field experience. An increased emphasis on pedagogy and assessment has meant the decrease of study within the social foundations areas and an increase in the specific pedagogical courses. The aim of this study was to better understand the current status of social foundations study in teacher education programs. The results show that social foundations courses at the undergraduate level are substantially diminished and that this important sub-discipline primarily mostly lives at the graduate level now. The results of this research are discussed for the professional implications it holds for teachers and the profession of teaching.

To what extent do preservice teachers feel ready to teach? A case study in the Master’s Degree in Teaching in Secondary Education

“…However, current education debates as well as research literature on this topic (e.g. Ramos, Tosina, Elorrieta & Iglesias, 2020) indicate that consecutive initial teacher-training programs do not always fulfil these expectations because this model provides a less integrated learning experience and it brings about a briefer period of being in contact with the real context, so its socialization experience with future colleagues is poorer although it is considered as one of the most influencing factors in their professional development (Barbre, 2018;Wilks, Snow, Lasczik & Bowling, 2019).…”

“…In general, these variables are related to activities that promote respect, diversity and cooperation among students. Previous studies (e.g., Barbre, 2018) emphasize the importance of promoting the acquisition of social, decision-making and leadership skills and of stimulating creativity and management, in addition to developing other competences.…”