Integrating sign systems in two field-based literacy method classes: Preservice teachers’ problems and perplexities.

Abstract

In the past few years, reading researchers have come to understand that literacy means more than the ability to read and write. An expanded notion of literacy now suggests that readers construct meaning from multiple sign systems, not just print text. In this inquiry, I investigated the concerns and dilemmas of two groups of preservice teachers as they integrated multiple sign systems with print-media media lessons in field-based courses. Data consisted of teaching cases and dialogue journal ter. I also documented the preservice teachers' lessons throughout the semester. Analysis of the data produced eight themes reflecting the preservice teachers' lack of understanding about sign systems. The inquiry contributes insights and practical information to literacy teacher educators who most likely will increasingly require preservice teachers to incorporate sign system activities with print-media lessons.

Reference

Richards, J. C. (2005). Integrating sign systems in two field-based literacy methods classes: Preservice teachers' problems and perplexities. Journal of Reading Education, 31(1), 5-12.

Journal

Journal of Reading Education

Analysis

Is this article part of a larger project or series of studies?

Does this study draw on a large, preexisting data set?

Research Approach

Qualitiative

Geographic Setting

Mississippi Gulf Coast

Institutional Context

University based

Certification Level

Not stated

Programatic Focus

not stated

Research Location Context

Elementary school
middle school

Preservice Participants

Undergraduates (university based program)

Preservice Sample Size

Duration of Data Collection

Academic Semester

Data Sources

fieldnotes
Observations
Reflective journals
University coursework assignment (e.g. writing/project done for a grade)

Data Analysis Tools

Constant comparative analysis

Researcher Positionality

inside (staying their own students)

Research Questions

What themes might be visible in the data that provide a window into the preservice teachers' problems and perplexities about incorporating sign system activities with print-media lessons?
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Yes

Will the preservice teachers demonstrate a better understanding of, and a preference for, working with some sign systems rather than others? (e.g., computer technology as opposed to visual art, drama, dance, poetry, or music)
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Yes

Will the preservice teachers in Barton Primary School and Alexander Middle School exhibit similar or different problems and perplexities about incorporating sign systems with print-media lessons?
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Yes

Will the data illuminate instructional gaps or shortcomings that I, as program supervisor, need to remedy?
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Yes