Equipped to Teach: An Examination of Pre-Service Teacher Competencies in Supporting the Needs of Exceptional Learners
Loading...
Authors
Lamothe, Lauren Nicole
Date
2025-01-28
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Pre Service Teacher , Teacher Candidate , Competence , Principals' Expectations
Alternative Title
Abstract
This exploratory study examines elementary pre-service teachers' (PSTs) perceived competencies in supporting students with exceptionalities. Previous global research on teacher competencies has found that PSTs often feel unprepared to meet the diverse needs of students in the classroom. Additionally, inconsistencies exist in defining and measuring competence. Notably, no research has been conducted on this topic in the Canadian context.
This study addresses this gap by exploring PSTs' perceived competencies in Canada. Data was collected from two stakeholder groups—pre-service teachers and principals—to examine potential differences between PSTs' self-perceived competencies and principals' expectations of novice teachers. The findings indicate that PSTs enrolled in a special education-related concentration report the highest levels of perceived competence in supporting students with exceptionalities. Additionally, this group aligns most closely with principals’ expectations. However, results also highlight a potential disconnect between the skills developed in teacher education programs and the competencies expected by school principals.
This research identifies specific areas of strength and areas requiring further development in novice teachers' competencies. By doing so, it provides a clear set of skills that should be emphasized in future training and professional development initiatives.
Description
Citation
Publisher
License
Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International