Dilemma-based Cases Written by Preservice Elementary Teacher Candidates: An analysis of process and content

The present paper describes how preservice teachers constructed dilemma-based cases as part of a reflective and inquiry-oriented teacher education program. Twelve elementary education majors wrote dilemma-based cases based on critical incidents experienced during their field placements in Professional Development Schools. Examination of these data reveals that writing cases allowed these teacher candidates to resolve dilemmas they experienced during their internships, which influenced their perceptions of their roles and relationships in elementary classrooms. The process of writing cases also helped these prospective teachers to work through their feelings about these incidents and to understand the value of reflection. Content analyses of these data revealed that all of the cases centered around two typical novice teachers' concerns: (a) the preservice teacher's relationship with their cooperating teachers and students, or (b) classroom management concerns. None of the cases revolved around content or curriculum issues .