Interdisciplinary Anchoring of Research-based Learning in Teacher Education

Verankerung im Rahmen eines Kompetenzentwicklungsportfolios

Abstract

Research-oriented learning as an academic didactic approach is becoming increasingly important in university teacher education, as indicated by the increase in the proportion of research-oriented learning in the study program proposed  by  the  KMK  (see  Weyland  &  Busch,  2009,  pp. 1ff.).  For  example,  research-oriented  learning  fosters  gaining  specialist  knowledge  and  promotes  an inquisitive-reflexive  attitude,  and  key  competences  such  as  creativity,  perseverance, and social  competence (see Bastian et al., 2006, pp. 155f.). In order to enable a successful implementation, research-oriented learning in studies needs to be
supported by organizational, curricular and personnel measures (see  Weyland & Busch, 2009, p. 1). This paper reports on a concept for implementing researchoriented learning in the education of prospective teachers in  vocational schools through a competency development portfolio. The po rtfolio is regularly used during Bachelor and Master Studies and combines both study sections. It aims at the promotion of (self-)reflectivity and is dedicated in part to research-oriented learning. In a Bachelor module, for example, students are systemati cally supported in creating their own research sketches, justifying them and putting them up for discussion.  These  research  sketches  include  the  formulation  of  research  questions and hypotheses, the selection of a survey tool, the selection of a sample, and the development of the study design and work plan. In the Master, a practice module ties in with these research sketches. Here, the students develop and test concrete survey instruments and evaluation methods. The insights gained in both modules in turn feed into the planning and execution of an empirical master thesis. The article shows how across the two phases of the study an inquisitive -reflexive attitude among prospective teachers can be fostered.