Role Play Activities in Small Programs: What, Why, Where, and How?

Abstract

Preservice teachers need many opportunities to practice teaching skills prior to using the skills in high-stakes settings like real, live classrooms. Role play is an accessible and flexible option for embedding skill practice into individual courses. They may focus on specific high-leverage practices (HLPs) and enable preservice teachers to engage in activities to use skills learned across courses. This article provides an analysis of why to use role play, suggestions on when to use role play, and steps and resources for creating and using your own role play activities. We conclude with lessons learned by our Small Special Education Program.