Music cooperating teachers’ perceptions of the university-cooperating teacher partnership

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine three music cooperating teachers’ perceptions of the university-cooperating teacher partnership. Using a phenomenological interview design, data included two focus group interviews (framing the student teaching semester) and an individual interview in the middle of the term. Participants were experienced cooperating teachers who were working with a student teacher in the research study term and had worked with student teachers in the past. Findings include cooperating teachers’ perceptions of their roles, the balance of P–12 student and student teacher learning, and university and cooperating teacher interactions. Conclusions support the notions that cooperating teachers embrace their multi-faceted role in teacher education, prioritize P–12 student learning, and desire deeper connections with the university.