Understanding barriers to discussion-based learning: using an epistemological perspective to theorise student teachers' perceptions

DEMISSIE, Fufy Ayal (2020). Understanding barriers to discussion-based learning: using an epistemological perspective to theorise student teachers' perceptions. TEAN (Teacher Education Action Network), 12 (1), 97-108. [Article]

Documents
27720:562911
[thumbnail of 648-Article Text-1489-2-10-20201120.pdf]
Preview
PDF
648-Article Text-1489-2-10-20201120.pdf - Published Version
Available under License All rights reserved.

Download (698kB) | Preview
Abstract
Discussion-based learning (DBL) has the potential to develop valued higher-order thinking skills and dispositions that are key to teacher professional learning and development. However, whilst much is known about effective classroom teaching strategies, students’ lived experiences of discussion-based pedagogies are relatively under-reported. This study therefore adopts a qualitative/interpretivist approach to examine how a group of student teachers perceived and described their experiences of learning through discussion. Data were drawn from five female student teachers who were interviewed in their penultimate year of study. The findings suggest that the participants were mostly indifferent to, and often critical of the place and value of DBL. Moreover, how they articulated their views was connected to firmly held views about teaching, learning and knowledge that seem incompatible with the underpinning principles of discussion-based learning. This initial exploration of student teachers’ lived experiences of classroom discussion therefore offers educators a fresh way to problematise and conceptualise the challenges of student engagement and participation in discussion-based learning, and to consider approaches that challenge students’ deeply held assumptions about knowledge and learning.
More Information
Statistics

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year

View more statistics

Share
Add to AnyAdd to TwitterAdd to FacebookAdd to LinkedinAdd to PinterestAdd to Email

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item