| This study investigated the value of utilizing 21st century learning tools to prepare teacher candidates at Asbury University's School of Education to effectively manage a classroom. Asbury University is a small faith-based institution located approximately fifteen miles south of Lexington, Kentucky. This study utilized techniques that are commonly used in the medical/clinical model to prepare physicians. The researchers provided classroom management clinical learning experiences using avatars, video analysis, and simulations/role plays to determine if these three 21st century teaching tools better prepared candidates to meet the demands they will likely face when they enter the classroom as a first year teacher. The study's findings indicated that teacher candidates were very positive about their participation in all three clinical training experiences and indicated that their feeling of preparedness to effectively implement classroom management was enhanced as a result of the authentic training module. |
