Manburg, J., Moore, R., Griffin, D., & Seperson, M. (2017). Building reflective practice through an online diversity simulation in an undergraduate teacher education program. Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, 17(1). https://citejournal.org/volume-17/issue-1-17/current-practice/building-reflective-practice-through-an-online-diversity-simulation-in-an-undergraduate-teacher-education-program

Building Reflective Practice Through an Online Diversity Simulation in an Undergraduate Teacher Education Program

by Jamie Manburg, Nova Southeastern University; Rashid Moore, Nova Southeastern University; David Griffin, Nova Southeastern University; & Marvin Seperson, Nova Southeastern University

Abstract

This paper discusses preservice teachers’ perceptions of an online, in-house diversity simulation in an undergraduate teacher education program conducted over a 3-year period. The diversity simulation was a nontraditional capstone experience for 193 preservice teachers in majors ranging from early childhood to secondary education. The diversity simulation included scenarios at the kindergarten, middle school, and high school levels, allowing participating preservice teachers to assume leadership positions during the simulation. Results of an anonymous survey indicated that the preservice teachers found that the diversity simulation provided realistic scenarios and promoted creative thinking and team building. Preservice teachers were also asked to write a final critique essay of the simulation experience. Qualitative themes emerged from an analysis of the essays that were consistent with previous research on simulations. Such themes included self-efficacy, emerging professional identity, empathy, leadership, knowledge base, collaboration, ethics, and critical thinking.

Teacher education programs are principally charged with the task of preparing preservice teachers before they enter a profession that increasingly requires awareness of diversity and inclusion (Badiee & Kaufman, 2014, 2015; Girod & Girod, 2008; Rayner & Fluck, 2014; Zibit & Gibson, 2005), critical thinking, team-building, professional identity, and self-efficacy (Bautista & Boone, 2015; Carrington, Kervin, & Ferry, 2011; Sottile & Brozik, 2004).

Unfortunately, the field experiences of preservice teachers that lead up to entry into the profession are often fragmented in a variety of university courses that provide decontextualized experiences within teacher education programs (Carrington et al., 2011). Such experiences may leave teacher candidates feeling unprepared to assume their teaching duties inside and outside of the classroom. This problem was noted by Darling-Hammond and Sykes (2003) as an important variable in the attrition rate of new teachers within those crucial first 3-5 years in the profession (Zibit & Gibson, 2005).

Compounding the problem is that those fragmented experiences tend to be high stakes (Girod & Girod, 2008), in the sense that preservice teachers are constantly evaluated by cooperating teachers and university supervisors, often with guidelines and checklists mandated by school districts and university internship seminars. Such evaluation tools may also discourage experimentation to resolve critical incidents with students, families, colleagues, and K-12 administrators.

In such a heavily prescribed and monitored environment, opportunities for do-overs are not often available to preservice teachers if they wish to handle situations differently. Furthermore, preservice teachers do not get opportunities before their internship to experiment repetitively in realistic situations in which they are encouraged to problem-solve collaboratively in relatively consequence-free environments (Badiee & Kaufman, 2014).

To allow preservice teachers the opportunities to experiment in lower stakes environments before assuming full-time duties in the classroom, classroom simulations have been created and adopted by many teacher education programs worldwide. Such simulations can range from primarily text-based to virtual reality (Gibson, Aldrich, & Prensky, 2007).  As creators of simSchool noted in their rationale for the creation of their classroom simulation (Zibit & Gibson, 2005), simulations provide learning opportunities similar to pilots in aviation simulators, in that both can provide a sense of realism without the potential consequences to real stakeholders should ill-advised decisions be made.

Badiee and Kaufman (2014) asserted that simulation classrooms “could provide repetitive experimentation, practice and feedback cycles that would not be possible in classrooms and that avoid the dangers associated with mistakes made on actual students” (p. 182). Thus, there is a need to create a simulated curricular experience for preservice teachers that allows unified, contextualized experiences in a low-stakes environment to encourage experimentation and collaboration.

In addition to creating experiences in which preservice teachers can experiment and collaborate without fear of failure or adverse consequences, there is a need to create learning experiences that also reflect the changing demographics of K-12 classrooms as they evolve toward greater diversity, including a shift toward minority-majority schools in 2014-2015 for the first time (National Center for Education Statistics, 2013). A simulation that specifically addresses diversity within a K-12 environment could accomplish this. However, studies that use K-12 classroom simulations generally do not focus on diversity, although the simulations used in the studies may have elements that address culture, language proficiency, and learning disabilities.

One exception to this would be Rayner and Fluck (2014), who addressed diversity using a simulation to inculcate awareness of students with disabilities.  In general, however, previous studies tended to focus on teacher work samples (Girod & Girod, 2008) and classroom management and instruction (Badiee & Kaufman, 2014; Carrington et al., 2011). Therefore, a study which uses a classroom simulation with diversity as its principal focus would be a welcome addition to previous research in building a reflective practice for undergraduate preservice teachers.

To meet the needs of teacher education programs there are both commercially available simulations, such as simSchool (Gibson, 2007; Zibit & Gibson, 2005), and in-house, locally developed simulations, such as ClassSim (Kervin, Ferry & Carrington, 2006), Cook School District (Girod & Girod, 2008) and TeachME (Bautista & Boone, 2015). There are advantages and disadvantages to both commercial and in-house products. Although generally more engaging with the gamer generation, commercial simulations may be limited with respect to the number of simultaneous users allowed (Rayner & Fluck, 2014), the cost associated with licensing the products, and flexibility in adding content such as custom scenarios. In-house simulations, while sometimes lacking that game-like edge of a more polished commercial product, allow custom content to be added or incorporated. In addition, it is possible for the creators of in-house simulations to retain local control of the simulation to meet the needs of a specific teacher education program.

In order to improve the reflective practice of preservice teachers before they enter their internships and the teaching profession, a team of education faculty members at a large, private, not-for-profit university in the southeastern United States opted to create an in-house simulation to enhance teacher candidate awareness of real world situations involving diversity they may encounter as future teachers.

The design and development of the simulation was a collaborative 3-year effort between the university and two international companies, Tata Interactive Systems and TOPSIM. TOPSIM was responsible for the overall custom simulation design, Tata provided all the programming and web development, and 10 full-time education faculty members were responsible for the content. A special budget of approximately $100,000 was allocated by the university to support the creation of this simulation.

In the first year of development, the university faculty members developed the content for the simulation. In the second year, TOPSIM developed the working beta model, and Tata provided programming and other technological support. Faculty training on the simulation was initiated at the end of the second development year. The simulation was pilot tested in the middle of the third year of the project with 18 students, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. At the end of the third development year, the simulation went live with the first 60 undergraduate students enrolled in the course.

A major goal of this simulation was to encourage group and self-reflection through problem-based learning as the participants evaluated and intervened in a series of six scenarios involving realistic critical incidents demanding their immediate attention as teachers, parents, and administrative staff. The simulation (see Figure 1) had the theme of diversity running throughout the fabric of various authentic scenarios, some inspired by the headlines of recent years.

The simulation provided preservice teachers the opportunity for collaboration within a safe and low-stakes environment while promoting higher order thinking. The simulation also provided the opportunity to debate interventions, as well as create alternative solutions not envisioned by faculty developers of the simulation. Furthermore, the simulation allowed preservice teachers to make suggestions to improve the simulation for future preservice teachers through reflections and anonymous surveys.

Figure 1
Figure 1. Screenshot example illustrating diversity.

 

 In this study of an online diversity simulation, we examined how undergraduate preservice teachers interacted with the simulation and with one another in teams to ascertain their opinions about the simulation as a preparation tool for future teachers. In addition, we compared qualitative themes that emerged from feedback to see if they were consistent with previous research on simulations in education.

Both qualitative and quantitative survey data were analyzed in order to determine participants’ perceptions of the simulation and its role in preparing preservice teachers for diversity-related situations they may encounter in their future teaching. The following research questions were investigated:

  1. What are preservice teachers’ opinions about the diversity simulation experience as a preparation tool for future teachers?
  2. To what extent are preservice teachers’ reflections consistent with previous research on teacher education simulations (after completing the diversity simulation experience)?

Simulations and Education

Simulations and game-based learning environments have been used in various fields of education such as science education (Barab & Dede, 2006; Rutten, van Joolingen, & van der Veen, 2012), art education (Lu, 2011), physical education (Lin & Zhang, 2011), social studies education (Ioannou et al., 2006; Yukhymenko, 2011), elementary and secondary science education (Burton et al., 2011; Sottile & Brozik, 2004), early childhood education (Bautista & Boone, 2015) and diversity education (Bachen, Hernandez-Ramos & Raphael, 2012; Inglis et al., 2004; Simkins & Steinkuehler, 2008).

In a review of research on computer simulations and science education and other closely related science, technology, education, and mathematics (STEM) fields, Rutten et al. (2012) examined 48 empirical studies that focused on the use of computer simulations aimed at changing knowledge or skills of high school and undergraduate students. The results of the review of all the studies indicated that simulations are “robust additions to the repertoire of teachers, either as an addition to available traditional teaching methods or as a replacement of parts of the curriculum” (p. 151). Furthermore, positive results were commonplace across studies for motivation, attitude, and viewing of the simulation as a prelab training for real-lab activities, not unlike a diversity simulation with realistic school scenarios as preparation for real-life teaching.

Rutten et al. (2012) also noted,

The reviewed studies show that effects of well-designed simulation-based instruction are potentially high. The main factors that need to be considered are the way the learner is addressed and involved, the way information from the simulation is presented and integrated, what additional information is presented, and how this presentation is timed. (p. 151)

Several researchers caution, however, that simulations should not be completely controlled by the instructor (Lindgren & Schwarz, 2009; Rutten et al., 2012; Windschitl & Andre, 1998). Their research further suggests that simulation users should have opportunities to create and evaluate their hypotheses and possible courses of action within well-defined scenarios and contexts.

As simulation scenarios tend to be complex and realistic (Barab & Dede, 2006), Rosenbaum, Klopfer, and Perry (2007) explained that students “should be able to work with incomplete information, adapt to changing conditions, manage complexity and fluidly create and share knowledge” (p. 32). These findings suggest that for a diversity simulation, preservice teachers should have a fair degree of autonomy and involvement in the simulation. A simulation should be offered at a time when preservice teachers can best make use of their previous training and explore and test their hypotheses in diversity scenarios that are contextualized.

Simulations and Teacher Education

As noted, simulations have a number of positive benefits in the teaching of content areas to undergraduate students, in general. For teacher education, in particular, several virtues make simulations particularly well suited for preservice teachers.

Many preservice teachers are digital natives and would naturally expect technological innovations in their education programs. For example, Zibit and Gibson (2005), Girod and Girod (2008), Archambault, Wetzel, Foulger, and Williams (2010), Schrader, Archambault, and Oh-Young (2011), Rayner and Fluck (2014) and Badiee and Kaufman (2014) argued that teacher education programs need to employ technological innovations such as simulations to better prepare teachers for 21st-century classrooms, as well as for teaching technologically proficient students with whom they will be working. In their discussion on the creation of the simSchool simulation, Zibit and Gibson (2005) noted that teacher education simulations would be akin to flight simulators in allowing students through innovative technology to immerse themselves in the complexities of teaching students.

One characteristic of simulations that is well suited for preservice teachers is their experimental nature in a low-stakes environment (Girod & Girod, 2008; Rayner & Fluck, 2014).  Preservice teachers can experiment without the risk of consequences they might normally face if their classroom decision takes an ineffectual or even chaotic turn viewed by a university supervisor or cooperating teacher. As Girod and Girod (2008) explained,

The failure of that “try,” particularly if it results in chaos, may be difficult to overcome as supervisors may be horrified by such a debacle. Failure in a practicum setting can be destructive to one’s search for entry into the teaching profession. (p. 310)

Further, if constructed well, simulations allow users to step outside the normal boundaries of thinking and consider multiple complex possibilities and scenarios that do not always have right or wrong answers.

Another benefit of simulations is that they allow users to see direct connections between what they are learning and the real world (Badiee & Kaufman, 2014). The more realistic the simulation, the more interesting it would be to digital natives who are plugged into a constant stream of information through their digital devices.

Additionally, the less a simulation resembles schoolwork and the more control preservice teachers have over the simulation, the more the simulation would feel like authentic learning outside of the classroom (Badiee & Kaufman, 2014; Carrington et al., 2011; Girod & Girod, 2008). Finally, simulations allow users to gain precious confidence in decision-making in situations that are complicated and generally require a collaborative approach to resolve (Inglis et al., 2004). When preparing preservice teachers for situations that might arise before they take over a classroom in a student-teaching internship and later their own classrooms, these benefits should be taken into consideration.

Professional Identity and Self-Efficacy

In addition to greater self-confidence reported for preservice teachers while using innovative technology, simulations also have a further benefit of promoting professional identity and self-efficacy. Sottile and Brozik (2004) found that simulations have great potential for use in teacher education for the promotion of team building, critical thinking, and self-efficacy. Bautista and Boone (2015) discovered that high self-efficacy is linked to desirable teacher actions and increased student achievement.

Burton et al. (2011) found that both their quantitative and qualitative data indicated a high level of self-efficacy among the preservice teachers regarding simulation use and problem solving in a science methods class in an elementary education program. Further, Carrington et al. (2011) learned that simulations allowed preservice teachers the opportunity to make connections between theory from their program coursework and practical experiences they gleaned from their field experiences to make decisions confidently. Their results also suggested that teacher candidate users of an “online simulation may be better equipped to transfer the knowledge and skills they acquired during their training to a real life situation” (p. 366). Of particular interest is the notion that the emerging professional identity of preservice teachers could be enhanced through inclusion of relevant professional scenarios, materials, and support during the simulation in addition to the incorporation of a space for personal reflection and growth.

Mason, Glomb, and Blair (2012) examined how promotion of professional identity and self-efficacy among preservice teachers in realistic scenarios could be accomplished through virtual learning environments in simulated individualized education plan (IEP) meetings. The researchers found that virtual IEP scenarios allowed preservice teachers of various backgrounds and locations to connect with one another to solve problems, despite the fact that they were participating in a distance teacher-education program. What bound them together was a sense of collaboration, growing professional identity, and greater self-efficacy in working with parents in future complex situations.

Diversity Simulation Research

Although their research was geared more toward diversity education and empathy in a general education class, Inglis et al. (2004) provided a model that was used in this study for assessing the experiences of undergraduate students in a diversity simulation. Similar to their study, we used a 5-point Likert-type scale to rate the quality of the experience using a cultural simulation. Additionally, both the Inglis et al. study and the current study incorporated a summative written reflection about the simulation.

Expanding this model, we included written reflections throughout the diversity simulation to increase student engagement with the simulation. Similar to the Inglis et al. study, we also utilized oral reflections as part of the simulation each week as opposed to the single oral debriefing.

Finally, this study builds upon previous research that found classroom simulations promote elements of reflective practice in the teaching profession such as professional identity, self-efficacy, critical thinking, and empathy (Bautista & Boone, 2015; Burton et al., 2011; Carrington et al., 2011; Mason et al., 2012; Sottile & Brozik, 2004).

Research Methods

Participants

A total of 193 undergraduate teacher education majors (preservice teachers) participated in this study, which was embedded in an online diversity simulation. The course is a requirement within a 4-year undergraduate teacher education program within a large, private, not-for-profit university in the southeastern United States. The demographics of the university allow it to be classified as a minority-majority institution. The online diversity simulation is taught by full-time faculty members who were involved in its development. This is one of the final courses preservice teachers are required to take prior to internship.

Of the 193 participants, 6.7% were male, and 93.3% were female. Additionally, 13.5% identified themselves as being White (non-Hispanic), 8.3% identified themselves as being Black or African-American, 34.7% identified themselves as being Hispanic, 1.0%  identified themselves as being Asian/Pacific Islander, and 42.5% identified themselves as “Other.”

The entire simulation experience was based on profiles of K-12 students who were created solely for use in the simulation; thus, preservice teachers were not asked to correspond with anyone outside the course for the purpose of this study. Completion or noncompletion of the data-collection instruments did not impact the preservice teachers’ grades, and they were informed that their responses to the survey items would be anonymous and used to make improvements to the simulation.

Simulation Technology

The simulation platform is an HTML-enabled web link that the preservice teachers accessed using a unique login and password. After successfully logging in, they were immediately directed to a 2-minute Adobe Flash presentation/overview introducing them to the simulation and providing basic instructions on its use.

After watching the overview, preservice teachers had five tab options to select (see Figure 2). The first tab, “Student Profiles,” provided the preservice teachers with the names, photographs, and biographies of the students in their classes. Preservice teachers were encouraged to review the student profiles to become familiar with the fictional students with whom they would be interacting, as a classroom teacher would review student files prior to the start of the school year.

Figure 2
Figure 2. Screenshot of tabs and student profile.

 

The second tab, “Scenario,” provided the preservice teachers with the specific scenario for each week. The scenarios were composed of detailed classroom or school-related issues that teachers frequently need to address. These scenarios were based on current events or actual situations that have occurred in various school settings.

The third tab, “Types of Interventions,” provided 10 standard interventions for the preservice teacher to select to address the weekly scenario. The teachers were asked to review the 10 possible interventions and select the one that best addressed the issue presented in the scenario. Figure 3 displays the intervention choices.

Figure 3
Figure 3. Intervention choices.

 

If the preservice teachers expressed that the interventions did not adequately address the issue in the scenario, they were encouraged to provide a custom intervention. Figure 4 is a screenshot that displays the custom intervention view.

Figure 4
Figure 4. Screenshot of the custom intervention view.

 

The next tab, “Reports,” provided the preservice teachers with the simulation response based on the intervention they selected. If the preservice teachers selected a custom intervention, there was no automated simulation response; hence, the response was provided by the instructor. The last tab, “Logout,” simply provided an option for preservice teachers to log out of the simulation platform.

Simulation Experience

To complete the diversity simulation, preservice teachers were placed in three distinct simulated settings: a kindergarten classroom, a middle school classroom, and a high school classroom. They were presented with detailed information relating to the students in their simulated classrooms: academic history, hobbies, family dynamics, and student’s photo. As the simulation progressed from kindergarten to middle school to high school, the simulation classroom students remained relatively stable, but changes occurred relating to the family dynamics and academic performance. These changes were presented to the preservice teachers along with updated student profiles and photos to accommodate the age progression.

This diversity simulation required all candidates to experience diversity scenarios at all levels (K-12). Candidates majoring in elementary education, for instance, were encouraged to offer their leadership and expertise to candidates of other majors. Likewise, secondary education majors offered their knowledge and expertise to candidates of other majors while reviewing high school level scenarios.

Next, preservice teachers were presented with a detailed scenario that described a realistic diversity-related classroom/school issue. After reading the detailed scenario, they were presented with several possible interventions that could be used to address the scenario.  Working in teams (along with other preservice teachers enrolled in the class) organized by the course instructor, they were asked to select the intervention they believed best diffused the issue in the scenario. If the preservice teachers as a team determined the interventions were inappropriate or inadequate, they developed their own custom intervention to address the specific issue described in the scenario. A new team leader was appointed each week who was responsible for discussing the scenario with his or her team, coming to a consensus and selecting one of the possible 10 interventions (or custom intervention) and uploading it into the simulation web-based program.

The following week, the simulation instructor conducted a synchronous online chat with the preservice teachers. Team leaders were asked to present on behalf of their team to discuss their reaction to the scenario in addition to their rationale for selecting their intervention (standard intervention or custom intervention) and their team members’ roles and responsibilities.

Research Design

This study utilized a mixed-methods research design. This approach, as discussed by Onwuegbuzie and Leech (2006), is advantageous when both quantitative and qualitative data a+re used in a single study. Creswell (1995) indicated that mixed methodology designs signify “the highest degree of mixing paradigms….The researcher could mix aspects of the qualitative and quantitative paradigm at all or many steps” (pp. 177-178).

More specifically, a parallel/simultaneous mixed-methods design (Tashakkori & Teddlie, 1998) was utilized. Participating preservice teachers completed the survey (quantitative data) and the essay (qualitative data) at the completion of the diversity simulation. In a separate study, Rayner and Fluck (2014) employed this approach to summarize their findings on a study relating to preservice teachers’ interactions with simSchool. Additionally, Badiee and Kaufman (2015) analyzed both qualitative and quantitative data to evaluate the overall effectiveness of simSchool in a preservice teacher education program. Thus, a mixed-methods research design was considered to best represent this study’s findings.

In order to collect quantitative data, we administered a survey that preservice teachers completed during the final week of the diversity simulation. This online survey contained a few general questions (e.g., major, year started the program) and then focused on more specific questions relating to the overall diversity simulation and the level of the preservice teachers’ engagement in the course. The items were structured in a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree, disagree, neutral, agree, strongly agree).

The survey items were initially developed by members of the simulation committee and pretested with the first group of preservice teachers who completed the course. Additionally, the original survey was distributed to six other full-time faculty members in the department for review. The original survey contained 25 items (plus six demographic-related items).

After review of the collected data and comments from faculty members, six survey items were removed because they were considered either confusing or not directly related to the diversity simulation. Thus, the final revision contained 19 Likert-scale items along with general demographic items.

Preservice teachers logged onto the Opinio survey link (provided in the syllabus) to complete the simulation survey. To prevent missing or unanswered items, a forced-completion method was implemented, in which preservice teachers were required to answer each item prior to submitting their responses.

Completed survey responses were downloaded in a spreadsheet format, and the responses were printed and entered into the Statistics Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 19 (IBM Corporation, 2010). Data entry was double checked to ensure accuracy. Additionally, following data entry, frequency statistics were compiled, printed, and compared to the original data to further ensure data-entry accuracy. Results of these data are presented in the results section.

The qualitative data centered on preservice teachers’ completion of an essay reflecting their experiences in the simulation. This assignment required them to prepare a 300-word simulation experience critique paper summarizing their entire experience with the diversity simulation, the relevance of the scenarios used for each simulation, and what they learned from this experience. This component was also completed during the final week of the course. This essay served as a means for the simulation instructor to collect qualitative feedback relating to the overall diversity simulation. The qualitative essays also were not part of the preservice teachers’ final grade.

To analyze the qualitative data, an inductive approach (Miles & Huberman, 1994) was employed. We independently read responses to the essay several times. Based on the content, themes were identified by and, after discussion, either agreed upon (by consensus of all authors) or discarded (if consensus was not obtained).

Results

Survey Data

The data reported in this article reflect the academic terms for a 3-year period from fall of Year 1 through summer of Year 3 of the simulation study. Of the 193 preservice teachers enrolled in the course, 164 completed the survey for the combined terms, yielding a return rate of 84.9%. Their specific majors included elementary education (44.5%), exceptional student education (23.2%), prekindergarten primary education (12.8%), secondary math education (10.4%), secondary biology education (3.7%), secondary social studies education (2.4%), secondary English education (1.2%), middle school science education (1.2%), and middle school English education (0.6%).

To assure anonymity, those who responded were not asked to provide their names, unique student ID numbers, gender, or ethnicity. Table 1 represents the frequency/percentage data of those who responded for each term.

Table 1
Term by Academic Major for Preservice Teachers Who Completed the Final Simulation Survey

Elementary Term Ed. (N/%) Exceptional Ed. (N/%) Pre/K Ed (N/%) Middle School/Other (N/%) Total
Fall YR 111 (73.3)2 (13.3)2 (13.3)0 (0.0)15
Spring YR 16 (46.2)3 (23.1)2 (15.4)2 (15.4)13
Summer YR 15 (29.4)7 (41.2)3 (17.6)2 (11.8)17
Fall YR 220 (57.1)6 (17.1)4 (11.4)5 (14.3)35
Spring YR 28 (32.0)8 (32.0)0 (0.0)9 (36.0)25
Summer YR 24 (30.8)2 (15.4)0 (0.0)7 (53.8)13
Fall YR 35 (31.3)3 (18.8)6 (37.5)2 (12.5)16
Spring YR 314 (58.3)5 (20.8)0 (0.0)5 (20.8)24
Summer YR 30 (0.0)2 (33.3)4 (66.7)0 (0.0)6
Total (N/%)73 (44.5)38 (23.2)21 (12.8)32 (19.5)164

 

In addressing the first research question, we decided to ascertain if the scenarios presented in the simulation were seen as being realistic and could possibly occur in a real classroom. Additionally, we wanted to determine what approaches the preservice teachers used to address the issue at hand and how they came to a decision on a resolution to the specific issue. A selected sample of the survey results is presented.

Because the scenarios presented in this study were inspired by current events, the preservice teachers were asked if the simulation scenarios mirrored real-life experiences. For this survey item, 90.2% responded agree or strongly agree. Thus, preservice teachers believed that the events presented in the simulation could occur in a real school.

Several survey items focused on how the preservice teachers came to a decision regarding the issue presented to them. One survey item asked whether they thought carefully about the problem presented prior to recommending an intervention; 95% either agreed or strongly agreed with this item. Next, preservice teachers were asked if they evaluated each intervention to determine whether it was the best approach to dealing with the issue presented; 95.1% agreed or strongly agreed. Finally, preservice teachers were asked if they used problem-solving skills during the simulation; 93.9% agreed or strongly agreed.

When looking at creative approaches used to address the scenarios, 94.5% agreed or strongly agreed that they tried to devise a creative approach to address the classroom issue. In addressing collaboration, 90.2% agreed or strongly agreed that they used team-building skills during the simulation. Table 2 represents a summary of the survey data.

Table 2
Survey Data Summary 


Survey Item
Strongly Disagree
Disagree

Neutral

Agree
Strongly
Agree
No Response
1. As I read through each scenario, I carefully thought about the problem presented prior to recommending an intervention.4.9% (8)0012.8% (21)82.3% (135)0
2. As I read through each scenario presented, I tried to think of a creative approach to deal with the problem presented.4.9% (8)0% (0)0.6% (1)26.2% (43)68.3% (112)0
3. As I read through each intervention presented, I tried to evaluate it to determine if it was the best approach in dealing with the problem identified in the scenario.4.9% (8)0% (0)0% (0)12.8% (21)82.3% (135)0
4. I have used problem solving skills in the EDUC 4200: Simulation Experience – Diversity course.4.9% (8)0.6% (1)0.6% (1)11.0% (18)82.9% (136)0
5. I have used team building skills in the EDUC 4200: Simulation Experience – Diversity course.6.1% (10)0.6% (1)3.0% (5)13.4% (22)76.8% (126)0
6. The EDUC 4200: Simulation Experience – Diversity course mirrors real life experiences.4.9% (8)1.2% (2)3.0% (5)19.5% (32)70.7% (116)0
7. After completing the simulation experience, I am now more aware of the importance of evaluating the many circumstances that surround a classroom/school related problem.4.3% (7)1.8% (3)3.0% (5)18.9% (31)72.0% (118)0
8. There is a clear connection between the EDUC 4200: Simulation Experience – Diversity course and issues presently occurring within the K-12 classroom environment.4.9% (8)1.8% (3)4.3% (7)20.7% (34)65.9% (108)2.4% (4)
9. In the future, whenever I encounter a classroom or school related problem, I will be more likely to examine/evaluate the circumstances that surround the problem before intervening.4.3% (7)0.6% (1)0.6% (1)21.3% (35)73.2% (120)0

 

Additional statistics applied to the survey data revealed that no statistically significant differences were found between the preservice teachers’ majors and survey responses. Thus, elementary education majors, for example, did not respond differently from preservice teachers from other academic majors.

Qualitative Data

Of the 120 submitted essays (response rate = 62.1%), we randomly selected three from each term, totaling 24 essays. Based on the analysis approach described in the research design section, the following themes emerged: self-efficacy, emerging professional identity as an educator, empathy, leadership, knowledge base, collaboration, ethics, and critical thinking. The most representative comments are presented in a detailed summary of the themes.

Self-Efficacy. The first theme that emerged from the data was that of self-efficacy. The diversity simulation was designed to prepare preservice teachers to make critical decisions during their student-teaching internship and, ultimately, within their profession. Their beliefs in their ability to handle challenging situations are essential to this success.

One preservice teacher, Student SELF1, appeared to be more confident after an experience navigating through the diversity simulation and interacting with classmates. The theme of self-efficacy ties in to Research Question 1. Gaining self-efficacy and confidence when faced with critical decisions in the classroom is an excellent preparation tool for future teachers. The characteristics and qualities of self-efficacy are needed to build self-confidence and motivation for first year and continuing teachers.

Student SELF2 noted that this course enhanced judgment skills needed to address certain situations in the classroom. The digital simulation experience provided the platform for the growth and development of these communication skills, as evidenced by Student SELF3, who described a better understanding of the respect gained for the individual opinions and cultural backgrounds of peers. Additionally, the emergence of self-efficacy might allow the preservice teacher to identify the confidence and motivation to build various skills needed for teacher preparation and subsequent success in the classroom, as is evident in the following comments:

I liked the format of this simulation. Being able to discuss topics with my peers allowed me to develop my communication skills as well as team building skills and solving the task at hand with each scenario. However, I would suggest a slight modification to the simulation by one, adding more scenarios, and two, incorporating some current event issues (Student SELF1).

This EDUC 4200 Simulation Experience-Diversity course by far has been the most beneficial course I have taken at X. This course actually teaches us future educators how to deal with real-life situations that we may encounter in our teaching career. It puts us in a predicament to use good judgment for the situation and what will be the best outcome for all who is involve in the incident (Student SELF2).

I’ve learned to respect each individual’s opinion and culture background. I realize that it was very beneficial in sharing everyone’s expertise and perspectives. I feel in the area of diversity and discrimination, if everyone would really look past their own selfish wants and do the right thing, we can come together and do better for our country and mankind (Student SELF3) 

Emerging Professional Identity. The second theme identified was emerging professional identity. One of the goals of the undergraduate teacher education program is to provide quality state and nationally approved teacher-preparation programs that incorporate contemporary philosophies and best practices of teacher preparation. To accomplish this, the faculty strives to ensure that the preservice teachers are continuous learners and incorporate research for ongoing professional development.

A critical objective is to develop the preservice teachers’ professional identity as an educator. The earlier the preservice teachers’ professional identities emerge, the sooner they can identify with the teaching profession and the students they will serve. Many preservice teachers solidify their professional identity during their first field experience, usually in the sophomore or junior year of college (if in an undergraduate teacher education program). This diversity simulation provided a simulated teaching experience connected with the theoretical practices to directly impact preservice teachers’ professional identity.

The emerging professional identity theme supports Research Question 1, as evidenced by preservice teacher Student EMERG1, who acknowledged that the digital simulation provided opportunities for growth as a future educator in addition to the confidence and preparation established. Student EMERG2 described the importance of decision-making within the teaching profession, and Student EMERG3 alluded to the awareness of the relevant challenges teachers face in the classroom, as the following quotations illustrate:

I have definitely grown as a professional due to this course.  I learned about proper disciplinary actions, how to handle situations in a professional manner and I have now been made aware of situations that can occur with students.  This course has taught me all of this, which I now apply at my job in aftercare. (Student EMERG1)

An educator is a very important job and there will be times when I will have to really sit down and evaluate which intervention choices I have and be able to pick the best one that will help my students. Given this experience, I feel like I have been given a practice trial and I am more prepared to handle situations that I may face as an educator. (Student EMERG2)

This experience with the different scenarios and interventions was quite interesting because it gave you an insight to what else it entails to become a successful teacher. Every scenario was relevant for today’s students and the issues and challenges they may face. My eyes were really opened by these scenarios because it showed another side of teaching that most do not think about when they decide to become a teacher. (Student EMERG3) 

Empathy. Empathy was an additional theme that emerged from review of the data, and it also addresses Research Question 1. What makes this theme unique is that empathy is usually implied within teacher preparation and demonstrated and learned more in practice than in theory. Empathy is not identified as a direct requirement within most state-approved teacher preparation programs pertaining to lesson plans, assignments, and textbooks, nor was it expected or assumed that there would be an emergence of empathy within a digital simulation, due to the separation of learner and instructor within the distance education course, in addition to the fictitious characters and profiles which comprised the students in the classroom.

The review and evaluation of qualitative feedback collected from the preservice teachers rendered numerous examples of statements demonstrating the understanding of empathy as a result of their experience in the diversity simulation. Student EMP1 referenced growing up within an empathetic family background. Nevertheless, having a good foundation with an empathetic background may not be enough to respond effectively to critical situations, as addressed by Research Question 1, as the feedback from Student EMP1 and Student EMP3 illustrates. Additionally, Student EMP2 emphasized the critical nature of addressing issues related to bullying in the classroom and how important it is to support the victims of bullying.

Entering the simulation experience, I was aware of being sensitive to the beliefs and cultures of others. That was a lesson instilled in me from a young age by my parents. However I didn’t realize as a teacher, being sensitive to it myself is not going to be good enough. I will have to develop ways to incorporate my teachings from my parents as well as this course to my students. I will also have to be mindful that my response to situations will need to be carefully thought out to foresee all possible outcomes, both negative and positive, so I can react accordingly. (Student EMP1)

It was hard seeing that teachers in certain areas may deal with situations like bullying more often in various schools. In the mind set ready to be teachers I think my group and the other groups as well learned a lot and most certainly grew from the experiences and trying to get the “perfect” intervention because of how much we wanted to help fight for these students. (Student EMP2)

Also, getting to know the students that we would have in our scenarios was very interesting. By being able to read about each student I felt like I was able to briefly get to know them and their families and was able to understand where they were coming from based on their upbringing and/or home life. The scenarios that we were given are in fact situations that we have in our schools. Therefore it seemed more “real life” and it made it seem as though we could very well find ourselves in the same situation one day in our own classroom. (Student EMP3) 

Leadership. Leadership was another theme identified. Service as team leaders was designed to promote leadership skills preservice teachers would need to develop professionally as educators when working with their peers and in the classroom with their students. The team leaders were responsible for moderating the group discussion and obtaining a consensus for the group before the intervention response was submitted into the simulation platform. The majority of the responses from team leaders indicated that their experiences were relatively positive, as evidenced by the following two comments from Student LEAD1 and Student LEAD2:

I thought the setup of the group discussions using us as the team leaders was wonderful. It allowed each one of us to show our leadership skills, which is a necessary trait as a teacher (Student LEAD1)

The idea of having a “team leader” worked well because it gave every student a chance to be in charge of initiating a discussion, listening, and acting to find a solution. As a group “Teacher Power” was able to work together in order to pinpoint the best intervention possible. (Student LEAD2)

Some team leaders reported challenges, however, in leading their groups and obtaining consensus, as various members of their groups expressed different opinions. Student LEAD3 acknowledged the challenging aspects involved with serving as a team leader and identified aspects of leadership as it relates to this simulation.

I have learned that being a leader is not as easy as it seems to be. There is extra work, a lot of patience, and problem solving skills in a team leader’s job description. Sometimes group work is not always the easiest. (Student LEAD3)

Collaboration. Preservice teachers should engage as part of a community of learners by the time they graduate and enter the classroom as professional educators, which can be modeled by cooperative learning, working in groups, and placing emphasis on working in team environments. A theme along these lines as evidenced within the qualitative data was collaboration. Preservice teachers were placed in teams consisting of five to six students at the beginning of the term. Many preservice teachers in this study acknowledged the improvement of their confidence as they worked extensively with their team members and, as a result, developed a strong sense of collegiality.

In the following quote, Student COLL1 discussed the significance of teamwork and its effect on the diversity simulation. Although at first Student COLL1 was nervous, a collaborative bond was developed over time, culminating in a feeling that team members “…were supposed to be together.” This feeling is precisely what education faculty wanted to instill in preservice teachers, as collaboration is an essential component of the teaching profession.

I really enjoyed working with my team. It seems like we were supposed to be together.  I don’t know how that happened at all. We really had a good time building off each other’s ideas and supporting each other. This became more fun as the weeks progressed. At first we were focused on trying to do the right thing and a little nervous.  However, as time went on we relaxed, settled in, and really enjoyed the course.

Research Question 1 was also addressed by Student COLL1, who acknowledged that as a result of the diversity simulation, he would bring sharper skills into the classroom when he works in the future on teams with other teachers to support larger goals for his school and students.

Many preservice teachers who participated in the diversity simulation did not immediately embrace the group/team oriented structure of the course and for a variety of reasons. Student COLL2 and Student COLL3 alluded to the initial disinterest in group work based on past experiences and the subsequent acceptance of this model as the course continued to move forward with positive results gained from the teamwork.

I hardly ever like being in groups because it is hard to get everyone to participate. However, I liked that we were placed into groups to discuss our opinions about each scenario and the interventions associated with the scenario. Instead of just submitting my own beliefs, we were all given the chance to read about other perspectives and how other members would handle the situation presented to them. (Student COLL12)

I have taken online classes for almost three years and this simulation course was one of my most challenging. Having to work with a group each week and come to a common intervention agreement requires a lot of time and thought. Luckily, my group worked well together each week and we never had a problem submitting assignments. Each scenario was relevant because they were all situations that teachers can and will face in and out of the classroom. (Student COLL3)

Ethics. Preservice teacher must adhere to state and national codes of ethics and principles of professional conduct of the education profession. All preservice teachers should act with morality, integrity, and honesty. Although the topic of ethics was not individually included as an assignment within the capstone course, it was specifically addressed within the weekly synchronous discussions between the instructor and the preservice teachers. As a result, many preservice teachers who completed the critique essay commented on the ethical nature of the diversity simulation, for example:

I learned a lot of lessons in this class on how to handle life lessons even before becoming a teacher, which can help in personal life issues that I may come across with friends. It was a very realistic class that was extremely helpful in realizing what situations I may come across when I become a teacher. (Student ETH1)

Student ETH2’s statement accentuated the importance of working together with other educators to troubleshoot solutions to issues in the classroom rather than acting alone. Many times seeking guidance or input from other peers is important when making decisions, and the preservice teachers enrolled in this course began to acknowledge this fact. Additionally, Student ETH3 discussed the importance of differentiating consequences for students at different grade levels causing the same infraction.

Teachers should always work together in these types of situations and ask for assistance if needed because someone else may have more experience or a different insight into the situation that the other may not.  Teaching can be a difficult profession but it is also very rewarding; to be a great teacher you must work with others and be willing to look for many solutions to situations in the classroom.  I really enjoyed this class. (Student ETH2)

I realized in the first course of action that a punishment for a student in kindergarten would not be anywhere as severe as one for a student who did the same behavior in a middle or high school.  Each one of the situations addressed things that would be common to see inside of a school and it made it possible to have a reference for situations when I become a teacher. (Student ETH3) 

Critical Thinking. Critical thinking was also identified as an emergent theme. One of the values and beliefs of the undergraduate teacher education faculty included having the preservice teachers think conceptually and critically so that they make effective decisions in the classroom and display effective professional judgment. The impetus behind the diversity simulation focused on stimulating and thought-provoking scenarios and applying critical thinking skills to resolve challenging issues. The intervention selected by the preservice teachers invoked an outcome, and the scenario played out so the preservice teachers understood how the decisions they make affect themselves and others.

Student CRIT1 appreciated the exercises fostering critical thinking and credited mentors with teaching the foundation for these skills. Additionally, the significance of learning to work with students of differing grade and age levels was stressed.

I love being able to think outside the box. It’s not a skill that a lot of people have, but I have had so many mentors who do just that, so through the years my knowledge and ability to use abstract thinking has grown. The only thing is, I have become so accustomed to working predominantly in Special Education elementary classrooms, so it was nice to have discussions about middle and high school students.

Additionally, Student CRIT 2 and Student CRIT 3 provided a reference to the knowledge gained and appreciation of the critical thinking and problem solving they used to navigate through this course. 

By taking this class I have learned a lot of valuable information. This experience required team work and critical thinking. I found that this class made us think about difficult situations and unlike other classes where you read about it you have to work with your team and come up with a situation. It was great to see how our class grew with our answers. (Student CRIT2) 

The Simulation class allowed me to utilize my critical, and problem solving skills while solving real life type scenarios.  It helped me in improving my team building skills that with help me while engaging on my career within the classroom. (Student CRIT3) 

Knowledge Base. Knowledge base was the last theme identified. In addition to the student profiles, scenarios, interventions, and outcomes, this diversity simulation taught various levels of content related to classroom management, following the proper communication protocol when working with school administration, making the connection to attitudes and behaviors, and reacting properly to situations related to diversity both inside and outside of the classroom.

Successful preservice teachers should learn not only to manage the classroom effectively but also to create a positive and safe learning environment. Student KNOW1 indicated that there is a protocol in the school that should be followed, as well as the necessity to collaborate with peers to reach a desired outcome for the student.  Student KNOW2 made the connection between attitudes and behaviors, and Student KNOW3 stipulated a strong awareness of the families of students encouraging negative thinking.

All in all, this course helped me to understand that it is important for educators to follow the correct protocol when dealing with situations in and out of the classroom (e.g., speaking with parents or the principal concerning an issue that they should be aware of), think carefully before choosing an intervention for a scenario, cooperate with others to achieve a common goal, and know and practice various standards such as diversity, ethics, professionalism, in addition to the role of the teacher at all times, (Student KNOW1)

Though contemplation of the scenarios this writer made the connection between attitudes and behaviors that may take place in the home, and behaviors adopted by the students towards others. (Student KNOW2)

In addition to demanding immediate consequential attention by the perpetrators in order to maintain a safe learning environment for all students, it is also very important to break the cycle. As some parents and families still model discrimination as acceptable behavior, it is up to the teachers and the schools to make sure that all students understand how inappropriate and unacceptable it is, both in the schools and in society. (Student KNOW3)

The findings indicate that the preservice teachers were able to articulate their perception of the information learned effectively as a result of completing the simulation successfully. The preservice teachers acknowledged that strengths in leadership, problem solving, and critical thinking enhanced their judgment and overall performance both inside and outside of the classroom. The preservice teachers’ preparation to enter the classroom was strengthened by the diversity simulation, as they envisioned themselves as professional teachers with the associated responsibilities and values.

Limitations

A potential limitation of this study concerns the survey data and the truthfulness of the respondents when completing the survey questions. To address this issue, the preservice teachers were assured anonymity and were reminded that their responses to the survey items were not reflected in the pass/fail grade for the course. They were not asked to identify their gender or ethnicity when responding to the survey items. Thus, there was little reason for them to provide information that was not truthful. However, as these demographic data were not collected as part of the survey, separate analyses could not be compiled.

The second potential challenge relates to the fact that this study was based entirely on a simulation. The ways preservice teachers respond to an incident in a simulated classroom may not reflect the ways they would respond to a real-life incident. Finally, the participants for this study were undergraduate teacher education students who registered for a specific college course. The ways they responded to the scenarios and the quantitative and qualitative items may not be representative of how others would respond.

Discussion

We investigated the effectiveness of a simulated environment and its impact on the development of preservice teachers enrolled in an undergraduate teacher education program. Review of both the quantitative and qualitative data indicated that preservice teachers rated the simulation as a valuable part of their program. As Sottile and Brozik (2004) noted, “Well-designed simulations and games have been shown to improve decision-making and critical thinking skills” (p. 2). We found the same results; preservice teachers reported that the simulations required the use of critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Preservice teachers described feeling comfortable in the simulated environment because they were aware that the decisions they made would not have a negative impact on students. As such, they replied that they felt safe in the diversity simulation with the ability to experiment and learn without the effects of real-life consequences. Girod and Girod (2008) noted that the fictitious K-12 students who composed the classroom environment within the simulation will never be harmed by decisions made by the teacher candidates, as they are part of a safe setting.

As Badiee and Kaufman (2014) indicated, a simulated environment provides a platform for preservice teachers to make critical classroom decisions without experiencing the consequences that might occur in a real classroom environment. Despite being in a safe environment within the diversity simulation, preservice teachers did not express any prejudices or preconceived opinions about the various cultural backgrounds and differences represented in the simulation. Preservice teachers reported that they could improve from the feedback received and apply this feedback in a real classroom setting.

In addition to the curriculum content and instruction provided during the diversity simulation, the technology used to develop the simulation platform should be credited with providing a realistic and authentic experience for the preservice teachers. In the current study, the preservice teachers reported that their overall experience mirrored real-life classrooms. This finding is consistent with Badiee and Kaufman (2014) and Girod and Girod (2008), who identified technology’s role in preservice teachers’ professional growth.

Preservice teachers learned how to moderate discussion questions in an online environment by serving as the weekly team leader for a scenario. Similarly, Carrington et al. (2011) reported that teacher preparation is a continual process in which preservice teachers learn to modify their roles to be more effective as developing teachers. Preservice teachers also gained knowledge about communication and protocol needed to be successful within a school setting by strengthening their professional identity as future educators.

Carrington et al. noted the traditional understanding that preservice teachers will cultivate their professional identity through their curriculum (theory) and field experiences (practice). A problem is that many preservice teachers are unable to recall theoretical knowledge from their textbooks, and simple observation in classrooms via field experiences may not be enough practice to develop their professional identity. Carrington et al. further suggested that the interpretation and reinterpretation of life experiences coupled with a deep understanding of the theory cultivate the professional identity of a preservice teacher. Participation in this virtual simulation impacted the shaping of preservice teachers’ professional identity. They learned the importance of selecting and executing proper disciplinary actions, handling situations in a professional manner, and communicating effectively.

Preservice teachers also experienced feelings of empathy pertaining to the backgrounds of their simulation students and critical issues faced in the classroom, such as bullying.  They developed collaborative and team-building skills, as they were responsible for communicating with their team members on a weekly basis via discussions and synchronous chats.

This result supports the findings of Simkins and Steinkuehler (2008) and Bachen et al. (2012), that digital simulation and games are excellent forms of media to strengthen feelings of empathy through experiential learning and role-playing. Additionally, similar to the findings of Sottile and Brozik (2004) and Mason et al. (2012), preservice teachers in this study demonstrated knowledge about ethics as they selected effective, ethical interventions in challenging scenarios.

Implications of the Study

This study has several implications.  The first is that it adds to the findings of previous research that a simulation is a viable medium for preservice teachers to practice and reflect in a relatively consequence-free environment before assuming responsibilities in a live classroom.  Both Badiee and Kaufman (2014) and Girod and Girod (2008) found that teacher candidates experienced success within protected settings that emphasize the significance of practice and reflection. Furthermore, the necessity of reflection is critical to the development of teacher candidates as they prepare for their professional careers.

The foundation of the diversity simulation revolves around continuous opportunities for teacher candidates to reflect on their decisions throughout their experience in the course. As a result of these particular reflections, teacher candidates develop their professional skill sets and leadership qualities that they will subsequently bring into the classroom as better prepared and advanced professional educators.

A second implication of the study concerns the choice of simulations for teacher education programs. Such programs may choose to use previously developed simulations, such as those discussed by Badiee and Kaufman (2014), Carrington et al. (2011), and Girod and Girod (2008). Teacher education programs may also opt to create their own simulations drawing upon the expertise of the faculty, as was the case in this study. Because this study and previous research found both commercially available and in-house simulations to be relevant and helpful in the development of teacher candidates, teacher education programs may opt for both types of simulations, as they are not mutually exclusive.

Third, this study incorporates the use technology in an undergraduate teacher education program. The simulation platform was used to introduce preservice teachers to real-life scenarios and have them address key issues in the scenarios online. The concept of using technology to prepare future teachers is not new but is becoming more refined (Badiee & Kaufman, 2015; Rayner & Fluck, 2014) as technological innovations advance and the demand for online programs increase. Thus, with advances in technology, teacher education programs can refine and remold their curriculum to include the use of simulations in their programs. One way to revise the curriculum would be to include simulations throughout a teacher education program instead of relegating a simulation to a penultimate experience before an internship.

Perhaps one of the most surprising findings of the study was that we found no emergent qualitative theme on diversity itself. Scenarios ranged from potential discrimination against a Muslim student, English language learners, and students from the LGBT community, and student profiles included Hispanic, African-American, Native American and South Asian backgrounds.

There may have been a number of reasons why diversity did not emerge. First, the participants attended a minority-majority university and had nearly completed their undergraduate studies in this environment. Second, the participants’ teacher education programs were infused with cultural awareness of difference from the introductory crosscultural studies course they would take their first semester through their last English as a second language course they took just before participating in the simulation. Finally, diversity is arguably an established fact in the lives of the participants and should be promoted and celebrated in society whether they are teachers or not.

Recommendations for Future Research

The diversity simulation was included as a required, nontraditional, online capstone experience for preservice teachers prior to their student-teaching internship in order to prepare them for diverse, realistic situations with K-12 students and families, their teaching colleagues, and school administrators. Although the undergraduate preservice teachers consistently indicated that the scenarios were realistic and helped prepare them for future teaching, this study did not follow the preservice teachers through their internships or into the first few formative years of teaching. Future research on the use of diversity simulations, including design-based research, should include follow-up data collection and input from recent graduates and new teachers. Such an addition would provide simulation creators feedback on the realism of the scenarios and afford new teachers the opportunity to suggest new scenarios and interventions to strengthen the simulation’s ability to prepare for the ever-changing diversity in schools.

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