Chapter 6: Connecting Theory to Practice: Using Videos as a Reflective Tool for Teacher Candidates

The positive effect of quality teacher preparation is well grounded in research. According to the National Academy of Education in 2006, “High quality teacher preparation helps candidates develop essential knowledge and teaching skills” (Darling-Hammond, & Bransford, 2005, p. 36). Gains in student achievement are directly correlated with knowledgeable teachers skilled in pedagogy. The Center for Teaching and Policy (Wilson, Floden, & Ferrini-Mundy, 2001) analyzed 57 studies and reported that teacher preparation in subject matter and pedagogical preparation have a positive impact on student achievement. Goe (2002) specified that schools with an abundance of emergency permit teachers are generally correlated to lower school achievement. Policymakers and researchers can unmistakably tie poor levels of student achievement to the percentage of underqualified teachers.