Culturally-relevant and responsive pedagogy in computing: A Quick Scoping Review

The underrepresentation of certain groups in computing has led to increasing efforts in the United States (US) to develop computing curricula that is responsive and relevant to a more diverse group of learners. In England, despite a mandatory computing curriculum from age 5, a similar problem is seen in terms of representation in formal Computer Science qualifications as in the US. The current paper used a Quick Scoping Review methodology to identify research that has implemented and evaluated culturally-responsive and relevant K-12 computing curricula, and to understand how they have been designed, the methods used for evaluation, and the factors affecting their success. In total, 12 papers were included in the review and all were from a US setting. Successes included changing learners’ attitudes towards computing and increased learning gains. Key factors in the implementation of the curricula were teacher confidence and understanding of the sociopolitical context of computing, opportunities provided for collaboration and sharing knowledge and opinions, and allowing time for difficult discussions without oversimplifying the issues. The review identifies important lessons to be learned for other countries, including England, aiming to increase the diversity in representation in computing in their schools.

EDITORIAL: New Academic Year and New Beginnings

This volume introduces three especially enlightening and astute works that aid in our navigation and understanding of learning technologies. First is Rebecca Smith’s article, which determines that technology is compelling in its ability to increase teacher confidence. The second is by Donna Hess, which exemplifies that instructional design principles backed by a theoretical approach are critical in conceiving compelling foreign language practices. The third, by Megan Motto, establishes that routine practice and contemplation with a coaching peer facilitates more efficient technology use within the classroom. These three papers come to the conclusion that technology within the classroom does not assure achievement unless that technology is used alongside a theoretical and pedagogical foundation. Furthermore, our journal will be undergoing important changes, as I am stepping down as editor and Dr. Gerald Ardito will assume my position in January of 2022.

Metacognition as a Mental Health Support Strategy for Students With Anxiety

Mental health issues can have a profound impact on school performance, with anxiety creating significant challenges in the classroom setting. As teachers work to address barriers to learning, schools must develop a system to fully address the growing needs of students with anxiety. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between metacognition and its use as a mental health support strategy for students suffering from anxiety. Results of the study showed a statistically significant relationship between the use of metacognition, self-regulation as a component of metacognition, and teacher confidence level in supporting students with anxiety. This study works to further advance the growing body of knowledge regarding the teacher’s role in the support of mental health needs of students.

The Phenomenological Confidence of the Teacher in Conducting Learning Projects

The present research intends to capture in essence the meaning of teachers' experiences in relation to confidence in the management of learning projects, deepened through the hermeneutical phenomenological method, the qualitative approach and the interpretive paradigm. The sample was made up of teachers who were successful in the implementation of learning projects. They were asked to narrate an anecdote, used with a conversational interview as an instrument for collecting their experiences. From the analysis and interpretation of the data, individual thematic units emerged, such as individual physiognomy, motivation, values, confidence, mistrust, frustration, reflection, satisfaction, vocation, teamwork, autonomy and commitment. After categorization, the central theme or group physiognomy 'teacher confidence' reflected in the phenomenological text was conceived. It is concluded that, in environments of trust and security, comprehensive values are developed to optimize learning and project development.

Reflecting on Emotions During Teaching: Developing Affective-Reflective Skills in Novice Teachers Using a Novel Critical Moment Protocol

Affective-reflective skills are an integral component of classroom pedagogy, providing teachers with emotional understandings and confidence that can improve overall classroom performance. This article presents a case study of early career primary school teachers, showing how such affective-reflective skills can be developed through iterations of a purpose-designed collaborative protocol. Use of this novel protocol allowed teachers to examine their classroom practices via critical moment analysis of affective responses observed from lesson videos. Findings demonstrate how teachers’ use of this non-judgmental and self-evaluative protocol contributed to an emerging understanding of the relationship between their affective-reflective skills and teaching confidence. Findings support an argument for reframing teacher professional learning, from a focus largely on curriculum content and pedagogy, to a focus that includes the teacher’s emotional experience and its subsequent analysis, as part of the learned content that supports the growth of teacher confidence.