Call for Manuscripts – Action in Teacher Education, Summer 2009 Special Edition

Research on Teacher Reflectivity:
The Impact on Teaching and Learning
Vol. 31, No. 2, Summer 2009

Editor: Edward G. Pultorak, Ph.D.

Manuscripts should be received by January 15, 2009

Many teacher education programs have a teacher reflection component and/or model. Yet, the literature provides very little information regarding the impact of reflection on teacher performance, teacher retention, and student learning. The goal of this special issue of Action is to provide greater clarity about the particular kinds of reflection that matter and avoid talking about teacher reflection generically, which implies that all kinds of reflection are of equal value. Manuscripts are requested that offer information regarding the impact of teacher reflectivity on (1) teacher performance, (2) teacher retention, (3) student learning and (4) other important aspects of teaching, learning and teacher education. We are particularly interested in research-based articles related to this topic and will also consider research syntheses, theory to practice articles, etc. After an initial review by the editor, manuscripts that meet specifications will be blind reviewed.

Manuscripts that address questions similar (but not limited) to those listed below are encouraged.

(a) Which types of reflectivity activities are most helpful? Do written reflections have a different effect than verbal reflections (as in conferencing questions)?

(b) Does teacher reflectivity have a long term effect? For example, are individuals who graduate from teacher education programs that promote teacher reflectivity more likely to stay in teaching after their first year of teaching than those who do not?

(c) Does the preparation of Cooperating Teachers and University Supervisors concerning teacher reflectivity make a difference? Is there a significant difference in effectiveness between those educated in various ways to foster teacher reflectivity in novice teachers?

(d) Does guidance from University and/or School Supervisors (mentor etc.) help? For example, are preservice teachers more likely to reflect over important issues if comments are provided (written or verbal) as part of the reflection?

(e) How much time should be spent in reflection? Is there a significant difference in effectiveness depending upon the amount of time spent in reflection? Is there an optimum amount of time and at what point does the value diminish?

(f) Does teacher reflection matter for student growth and achievement? Is it possible to document links between teacher preparation programs that encourage teacher reflection and gains in student outcomes?

(g) What is the perception of the international community regarding the impact of teacher reflectivity on teacher performance, teacher retention, student learning and other important aspects of teaching, learning and teacher education?

Manuscript Submission

Submissions must be completed papers (not previously published) and should not exceed 25 pages (including references and appendices, double spaced, 12 pt. Times Roman font, 1” margins). The editor requests that pages be numbered. Tables, charts, figures, illustrations should be kept to a minimum and placed at the end of the text with each on a separate page. Authors should follow APA fifth edition guidelines (2001). Notification of the status of manuscripts will take place after the submission deadline. The journal editor reserves the right to make editorial changes.

Include the following in your submission:

1. Cover page: Title of manuscript and complete contact information for ALL authors name, institutional affiliation, mailing address, e-mail, fax and phone (office & home) numbers.
2. Author(s) biographical sketch (50 words max). Include your name, title, department, institution, and a brief description of your current research interests and publications.
3. Two paper copies of abstract (100 – 150 words) and complete manuscript.
4. One self-addressed stamped envelope.
5. An electronic version of the requested information (on CD or 3.5” diskette in MS Word or WordPerfect, pc preferred) in three separate files: (a) cover page, (b) biographical sketch, (c) abstract and manuscript (prepared for blind review). Provide author name(s), manuscript title, and word processing program on the disk label. Paper manuscript or electronic media will not be returned.

Note: Submission from outside the United States, if necessary, can be emailed (pultorak@siu.edu) as MS Word or WordPerfect attachments as described above. Subject line in email should read Manuscript for Action.

Submit materials to:

Ed Pultorak, Ph.D., Guest Editor
Action in Teacher Education
SIUC
911 Donnie Ct.
Joliet, IL 60435-4443

MANUSCRIPTS SHOULD BE RECEIVED BY JANUARY 15, 2009.