As the number of English Learners (ELs) in US schools continues to rise, the need for effective instructional strategies to bridge the achievement gap between these learners and their English-proficient peers become more crucial to reduce the inequality among language minority groups. This study investigates the impact of virtual simulation experiences in developing communication strategies among teacher candidates for teaching ELs. Focused on the real and simulated teaching encounters of teacher candidates via the TeachLivE platform, this case study seeks to understand how these virtual experiences contribute to the practical application and transformation of teaching skills for effective EL communication. The research was conducted with teacher candidates pursuing Elementary and/or Secondary Education degrees at a large southeastern university in the United States, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews and was analyzed using Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis methodology. The findings indicate that virtual simulations are instrumental in enabling teacher candidates to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life settings, thereby enhancing their communication strategies with ELs. This adaptation to teaching methods underscores the necessity for flexibility in multicultural and multilingual classrooms. The study addresses a significant need to close the gap in traditional teacher education practicums, which often inadequately prepare candidates for the complexities of teaching ELs. It contributes to the literature on the use of virtual simulations in teacher education by highlighting their potential to bolster teacher effectiveness and student outcomes in diverse settings. The paper suggests that future research should broaden the scope regarding participants, and longitudinal research could be conducted to get insights into the long-term impact of virtual simulation training on teacher practices and student outcomes.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ucf.edu/oai:stars.library.ucf.edu:etd2023-1330 |
| Date | 01 January 2024 |
| Creators | NOOR, LAILA |
| Publisher | STARS |
| Source Sets | University of Central Florida |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Source | Graduate Thesis and Dissertation 2023-2024 |
| Rights | In copyright |
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