The Role of Handheld Computing in Facilitating Teacher Resilience through Problem Solving

UNCP Author/Contributor (non-UNCP co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Dr. Irina Falls, Associate Professor, School of Education (Creator)
Dr. Rita Hagevik, Assistant Professor, Science Education, Director of Graduate Programs in Science Education (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP )
Web Site: http://www.uncp.edu/academics/library

Abstract: Becoming an effective teacher that thrives not only survives involves much more than finishing a licensing higher education program. This study explored problem-solving strategies that student teachers used during their internship semester to cope with professional challenges and to develop resilience. The research questions in this study included: What strategies support the development of resilience? How are teachers approaching the professional dilemmas encountered? How can handheld devices facilitate reflective problem-solving? Six student teachers from early childhood education, special education, and science education used mobile computing devices for a variety of professional and personal purposes and reflected upon and documented uses. Data was analyzed using a case study approach. Major themes included risk factors such as low self-confidence, and protective factors such as strong motivation to teach, and critical reflection skills. Mobile technology devices proved to be easy to use and very helpful in the problem solving process.

Additional Information

Publication
Proceedings of Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference 2013
Language: English
Date: 2013
Keywords
Education, Teacher Education, Teacher Resiliency, Student Teachers, Problem-Solving Strategies, Mobile Technology, Mobile Computing Devices, Handheld Devices, iPads

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