As the partnership between RAS and ISU’s School of Teaching and Learning (TCH) continues to grow, we are able to bear witness to the development of early educators. Recently, two preservice teachers presented research at ISU’s 2024 University Research Symposium based on their time at RAS during their TCH 212 clinical experience.
Zoey G. (History) and Megan S. (English) had the following to say:
“As future educators, we are constantly evolving the way we approach teaching in the classroom, whether that be through creative lesson plans, new strategies shared by peers, or by implementing pedagogical staples taught to us by our mentors. But what about our approach to the education system as a whole? If providing a variety of means of delivering content and demonstrating skills helps teachers connect with a wider range of students, how does altering the foundational style of a classroom and school community impact students and teachers alike?
Through periods of observation in tandem with practical teaching experiences, students participating in the TCH 212 clinical sessions at the Bloomington Campus of the Regional Alternative School (RAS) are given the opportunity to witness the benefits of alternative education firsthand. This presentation is based around the insights of several past clinical students regarding their time at RAS and how their perspectives of the field of education have changed as a result. "
We are appreciative of the time all preservice teachers dedicate to RAS, and are particularly thankful of future teachers, like Megan and Zoey, who ask difficult questions about the ways we approach education. We look forward to our continued partnership with ISU, the TCH department, and future educators!