Connecting to Students Through Place

  • Ann K. Schulte California State University, Chico

Abstract

Two teaching residency programs in northern California have provided some insight into graduates’ preparation for, and inclination to pursue, teaching in a rural school. Both programs include early coursework that addresses the needs and strengths of rural communities and requires candidates to conduct an in-depth study of their placement community. This article specifically describes features of the community study assignment that aims to have preservice teachers examine their understandings about rural places, to create a connection to the place where students live, and to promote place-based pedagogy. Student feedback suggests the assignment is a promising practice for teacher preparation. A rural-focused curriculum and a strong understanding of the community creates conditions that support both the recruitment and retention of teachers in rural schools.

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Author Biography

Ann K. Schulte, California State University, Chico

Ann K. Schulte, Ph.D. is a Professor of Education, Graduate Program Coordinator, and Faculty Fellow for Rural Partnerships at California State University, Chico. She can be contacted at akschulte@csuchico.edu

Published
2018-11-07
How to Cite
Schulte, A. K. (2018). Connecting to Students Through Place. The Rural Educator, 39(2). https://doi.org/10.35608/ruraled.v39i2.201
Section
Promising Practices