Te(A)chThink explores an innovative approach to initial teacher education (ITE) in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. This initiative addresses the crucial need for future educators to develop critical thinking skills and experience meaningful learning through effective technology integration as part of their ITE course. As part of Te(A)chThink, we aim to investigate how a Culture of Thinking could manifest itself in ITE programs, tackling the challenges often associated with implementing such approaches in large student cohorts.
Te(A)chThink combines blended learning with elements of flipped classroom methodology in a six-week course. The structure integrates the study of theoretical frameworks with practical case studies provided by real practitioners. Key components include team-based online debates and peer reviews, fostering collaboration and critical reflection among participants. What sets Te(A)chThink apart is its focus on shifting student-teachers' attention from final grades to visible and meaningful learning processes. By emphasizing pedagogical reasoning and fostering a community of thinking within and beyond the university classroom, the project lays the groundwork for transformative teaching practices.
The results suggest the project's success. Observation, survey and document analyses revealed sustained student engagement, increasing debate and review scores, and positive feedback on the course structure and materials. Participants also perceived engagement across all levels of Bloom's taxonomy, particularly in higher-order thinking skills.
Te(A)chThink's sustainability is ensured through its accessible resources, including a teaching scenario sandbox, a database of pedagogically reviewed technologies, and a researcher-curated website. These tools support the continued impact and dissemination of best practices in teacher education.
The project is competing for the 2024 Best Practice-Based Research Award for several reasons:
- Relevance: Te(A)chThink addresses the pressing need for educators to be critically conscious of technology integration practices and their impact on student learning.
- Innovation in ITE: Te(A)chThink successfully implemented a Culture of Thinking in a large cohort setting, with data supporting the project's effectiveness in fostering deep learning and critical thinking.
- Application: the project bridges theory and practice, providing hands-on experience in critical thinking and technology integration.
- Sustainability: The project's resources ensure long-term impact beyond the initial implementation.
We recognize that many excellent projects deserve recognition. By sharing our experiences with Te(A)chThink, we hope to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about best practices in teacher education and technology integration. We welcome feedback and opportunities to learn from others in the EAPRIL community.
If you wish to know more about this nominated project, please join our Award Session at the EAPRIL 2024 conference in Hasselt!