The TeachSIM Coaching Study began at the University of Virginia in Fall 2017. The following simulation scenarios were integrated into the UVA Teacher Education program requirements:
Text-Focused Instruction: Providing specific, actionable feedback during whole-class discussions
Family Engagement: Communicating effectively with parents and guardians
Integrating the TeachSIM simulation curriculum into the UVA Teacher Education program provided two opportunities:
Preservice teachers were provided with low-stakes opportunities to practice and to receive coaching on teaching skills, which were covered in concurrent methods coursework.
TeachSIM researchers were provided with a standardized platform that allowed us to observe preservice teachers’ skills development over the course of their preparation program.
The Research Design
The Findings
Preservice teachers appreciate receiving immediate coaching and feedback, and having the opportunity to try challenging classroom scenarios multiple times.
Preservice teachers seem to improve meaningfully over the course of the teacher education program.
Preservice teachers significantly improve their observed teaching skills, like redirecting off-task student behavior or providing feedback to students in a discussion, when provided with directive coaching.
