TITLE:
An Innovative Approach to Observational Field Experiences in Higher Education
AUTHORS:
Elizabeth Block, Abbie Burt, Tiffany Papa, Leah Peterson, Gregg Stall, Alyson Theriot
KEYWORDS:
Observations; Technology-Based; Classroom-Based; Field Experiences; Higher Education
JOURNAL NAME:
Creative Education,
Vol.3 No.8,
December
26,
2012
ABSTRACT: Field experiences within teacher education programs are vital aspects of the higher education experience. The purpose of this article is to examine students’ perceptions of classroom-based field experiences and to determine the role that technology-based field experiences may play in institutions of higher education. The survey data indicate that while candidates perceive that classroom-based field experiences are invaluable in defining their professional choices, the data also indicated positive candidate perceptions of technology-based field experiences. Candidate focus group responses indicated that a combination of both classroom and technology-based field experiences are beneficial to candidates in teacher preparation programs. The implications of this study indicate that future research must be conducted as to the manner in which technology-based field experiences may be enriched in higher education.