Through the use of simulations, ESE believes that the quality of preparation can be strengthened. Specifically, we have heard from candidates about gaps in their readiness prior to entry into the classroom and we know from Sponsoring Organizations (SO) that there are experiences that are difficult to construct for preparation candidates; mixed reality simulations are an innovative mechanism to address these needs. Simulations will provide additional means and opportunities for candidates to experience the realities of the classroom in a low-risk, high-impact way. In particular, Massachusetts is interested in supporting the use of simulations in traditionally hard to experience areas, for instance: working with English Language Learners and students with disabilities. Please see this
5 minute video for additional information.
ESE is working with a vendor to present an opportunity to focus efforts to close the gap in readiness that teacher candidates perceive upon completion of their preparation programs and entrance to the classroom. There are two aspects to the Mixed-Reality Simulation work: 1) Piloting the simulations in initial teacher preparation programs and
2)Serving on a working group to support the development of 12-16 Massachusetts specific scenarios.
(2) The Mixed-Reality Working Group will support the development of 4 new avatars and 12-16 simulation scenarios that are specific to Massachusetts classrooms. The four new avatars will consist of:
- A student with an autism spectrum disorder
- A student with specific learning disabilities
- A student who is an English language Learner
- A male parent
Through the working group, the participants will help shape different aspects of the avatars, considering things such as personal characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race/ethnicity, socio-economic status, etc.), personality traits that influence behavior (e.g., conscientiousness, extraversion, honesty, arrogance, etc.), and how each avatar responds to specific stimuli (e.g., when asked to answer a question, when provided with feedback, reacting to different facilitation styles, etc.). Additionally, the working group will design a set of scenarios for each avatar and specify conditions such as non-verbal communication, various skill levels, how the avatar will respond to a set of common practices.
Working group participants will be asked to attend in-person meetings as well as provide feedback/input electronically. The work will unfold between August 2016 and February 2017 and likely require a commitment of 3-4 hours per month.
Optional: Participating in the Mixed-Reality Simulation PILOT. (See Application Link at:
http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2741093/EPIC-Field-Engagement-Application-Mixed-Reality-Simulations-PILOT)
Applications are due Friday, June 3rd.