‘Finding the image’: using photos to give voice to teacher educator professional learning

ABSTRACT

Our purpose was to explore the role of photocue reflection in the professional learning of physical education teacher educators. Five physical education teacher educators participated in a six-month professional learning experience focused on communication. Individual diaries including both photos and writing prompts, photocue reflective diaries, were used as both a learning tool and data source within a self-study of teacher education practices methodological frame. Two themes represented the use of photocue reflection: the multidimensional nature of the professional development experience and the use of photocue reflection to enhance reflective processes by supporting reflection on reflection-in-action. Photocue reflection supported identification and analysis of meaningful events related to communication. The processes helped participants to appreciate the significance of communication, clarifying understandings, and making connections to their teacher education practices. Insight is shared on the merits of photocue reflection in scaffolding professional learning experiences and in combining both a learner and teacher role within professional development activities.

KEYWORDS:

• Visual methods
• physical education
• reflection
• professional development
• teacher educators

Acknowledgement

We would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank Eileen McEvoy who served as our critical friend. Her insight, coupled with her gentle probing, allowed us to see more of ourselves.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes on contributors

Melissa Parker is Emeritus Senior Lecturer in physical educator teacher education. Her scholarly interest areas include accessing student and teacher voice and the professional learning of teachers and teacher educators.

Déirdre Ní Chróinín is a physical education teacher educator at the primary level. Her current research explores meaningful experiences for children in physical education and sport settings.

Maura Coulter is an initial teacher educator, lecturing in the area of primary physical education. Her research interests include meaningful physical education, self-study of leadership in education and professional development.

Paul McFlynn is Lecturer in Education and course director for PGCE Physical Education. Research interests in student mentoring and reflective practice.

Ciaran Walsh prepares trainee teachers to deliver high-quality PE in the primary phase, providing opportunities to work with pupils in mainstream and special schools. He also believes in the importance of self-reflection for trainees, and their tutors, in assuring high quality teaching and learning.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Standing Council of Teacher Education North and South, Ireland.: [grant number NA].