The Influence of COVID-19 and Virtual Learning on the PCK Development of Arizona Preservice SBAE Teachers

Abstract

The central research question that guided this study was: what is the influence of COVID-19 restrictions and modifications on the pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) development of the UArizona school-based agricultural education (SBAE) preservice teachers in agriculture, food, and natural resources content? This research was conducted using a single case study design of one preservice teacher cohort over the spring 2021 semester. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for all five preservice teachers, two university instructors, one teaching assistant, and five supervising practitioners throughout the student teaching experience. There were seven major themes that emerged from the data: it was primarily a classroom teaching experience, student teachers were prepared well in curriculum development, a lack of experimentation and problem solving in teaching, a lack of relationship building with students and professionals, student teachers were more protected from failure due to the COVID-19 environment, this cohort exhibited resiliency, and overall student teachers are prepared to teach. These themes support future research on PCK development through online and hybrid modalities while still incorporating early field experiences (EFE)’s and student teaching in-person. Further exploration on this cohort while in their first job post student teaching can provide information on the development and application of their PCK outside of the context of COVID-19. Recommendations for practice include implementing multiple EFE’s with deep reflection and the creation of one semesters worth of curriculum prior to student teaching during teacher preparation. Additionally, it is recommended supervising practitioners and university instructors maintain a balance of constructive criticism and positive feedback throughout the student teaching process regardless of current circumstances. Keywords: COVID-19; virtual learning, PCK development, preservice teachers, school-based agricultural education