Dissertation
Conceptualising the role of the practicum coordinator in Queensland state primary schools: A grounded theory study
University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Doctor of Philosophy, University of the Sunshine Coast
2020
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25907/00545
Abstract
It is generally accepted that the school-based professional experience of pre-service teachers, also known as the practicum, is a crucial part of initial teacher training and is valued highly by pre-service teachers (TEMAG, 2015). Literature on the practicum has, however, focussed largely on the pre-service teachers, mentor teachers and the university coordinator. The role of the Practicum Coordinator (PC), usually undertaken by a member of the school leadership team or classroom teachers, has received little consideration, although research has demonstrated that PCs have a vital role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality practicum experiences. Research (Le Cornu, 2012; Martinez & Coombs, 2001; Mutton & Butcher, 2007; Pell, 1997; Utley, Basile, & Rhodes, 2003) undertaken prior to this study reveals a paucity of knowledge in understanding how PCs generally, and in Queensland state schools particularly, conceptualise their role in the absence of an external role definition. The aim of this study was, thus, to examine the basis for the construction of the PC role by the PCs, from their personal perspectives, in order to develop a substantive theory that explains the conceptualisation of the role by the practicum coordinators. A total of 16 PC participants (five males and 11 females) participated in the study. The participant group comprised of eight members from school leadership teams (ADMN) and eight classroom teachers (CT), with four participants (two each of ADMN and CT PCs) in each of the four iterations.
Details
- Title
- Conceptualising the role of the practicum coordinator in Queensland state primary schools: A grounded theory study
- Authors
- Ann Birch
- Contributors
- Susan E Simon (Supervisor)
- Awarding institution
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- Degree awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Publisher
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- DOI
- 10.25907/00545
- Organisation Unit
- School of Education - Legacy; School of Education and Tertiary Access; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99450977702621
- Output Type
- Dissertation
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