The Expert Case Study Model: an alternative approach to the development of teacher education modules

Abstract

The study provides a rationale for and describes the procedures used to develop teacher education modules based on case studies of expert teachers. The Expert Case Study Model (ECSM) is based on findings of recent studies which focus on the personal practice knowledge that teachers build up through their teaching experience. An example of an expert elementary school teacher teaching reading in a mixed ability class is described in detail including citations recorded during the observation of the lesson and the processes of reflection and deliberation which served as the basis of the activities which characterise the module. One of the major undertakings of the project staff was to tap the tacit knowledge of the expert teacher and infer from it the behavioral patterns and the implicit theories. This was carried out with the help of the teacher who, through continuous dialogue with the staff ascertained the validity of the staff interpretations. Further study is needed to find out the impact and effectiveness of ECSM based modules in teacher education.