Date of Award
8-16-2022
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Educational Leadership, Ed.D.
First Advisor
Amany Saleh
Committee Members
Alicia Shaw; Nicole Covey; Tammy Edwards
Call Number
LD 251 .A566d 2022 L69
Abstract
This study examined the perceptions of teacher candidates and site facilitators regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the ArPEP (formerly known as APPEL) teacher preparation program. The study also analyzed the rate for candidates who completed and passed the edTPA and also the rate for those taking and passing the Principles of Learning and Teaching Praxis (PLT). Although there are many alternate teacher preparation programs, ArPEP (APPEL) is the only program in Arkansas void of research noting the advantages or disadvantages of the program. The mixed-methods research consisted of questionnaires sent to all teacher candidates and site facilitators. Interviews were conducted with both site facilitators and teacher candidates. The questionnaire also had two open-ended questions which provided additional data regarding strengths and weaknesses of the ArPEP (APPEL) program. The findings indicated a solid completion rate for the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Praxis at 94.17%. The edTPA portfolio assessment yielded a lower completion rate of 56.12% for the five-year period from May 2016 through May 2021. The findings of the ArPEP (APPEL) program included weaknesses in the structure and consistency of curriculum and instruction between sites. Other weaknesses found within the research included lack of time at the beginning of the year for unpacking standards, developing lesson plans, classroom management strategies, and differentiated learners’ modifications, as well as school policies and procedures. Weaknesses were also found in the area of mentoring and providing support for candidates across ArPEP (APPEL) sites to provide parity of support. Candidates and site facilitators perceived the strengths of the program in the ability to build a network of connections among cohort members, presenters, and professionals within their education community. Another strength is the development of self-efficacy of the novice educator. Participants, both candidates and site facilitators, mentioned the importance of being provided strategies and skills that enabled them to perform their duties as educators.
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Lowrey, Mary Frances, "Perspectives of Arkansas Professional Educator Pathway (ArPEP) Program Candidates and Site Facilitators" (2022). Student Theses and Dissertations. 240.
https://arch.astate.edu/all-etd/240
