Obstacles in Integrating Online Communications Tools into Preservice Teacher Education

Abstract

This study examines interaction through Electronic Mail (e-mail) among student teachers, their university coordinators, and cooperating teachers, and the influence of this on learning to teach and supervise. The primary focus of this study is to delineate the necessity of using e-mail and other technologies as an important aspect of the whole teacher education program. The study used data from the University of Southern California’s Collegial Teacher Education Program. Results indicated that all participants of the study considered email as an important tool for communication, although the level at which they use it varied. This study also revealed that most teacher education programs fail to provide appropriate technology training for preservice teachers. Finally, the authors offer their recommendations for effective integration of technology into teacher education programs.