Date of Award
Summer 6-11-2024
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ed.D. in Secondary and Middle Grades Education (History)
Department
Bagwell College of Education - Department of Secondary & Middle Grades Education
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Mei Lin Chang
Second Advisor
Dr. Caroline Conner
Third Advisor
Dr. Jennifer Dickey
Abstract
As museums increasingly serve as educational hubs, this research examines how teachers' participation in such programs contributes to their perceived efficacy for teaching topics of difficult history. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilizes a survey with quantitative and qualitative measures to evaluate changes in teacher self-efficacy before and after a museum-led intervention. With a pre and posttest design, this study provides deeper insights into participants' experiences and challenges. Preliminary findings suggest museum-led professional development has a significant positive impact on teachers’ perceived self-efficacy, highlighting the resources and opportunities museums have available and the importance of humanizing history in social studies education. This research contributes valuable insights to enhance the implementation of effective professional development initiatives led by museums, fostering continuous improvement within the teaching profession.