Collaborating Across the Miles: Telecollaboration in a Social Studies Methods Course

This study considers the enrichment of social studies methods through the integration of videoconferencing in a telecollaborative format. The purpose in developing this study was threefold: (a) to describe the perspectives of teacher candidates while participating in a telecollaborative social studies methods course experience, (b) to determine in what manner videoconferencing could enhance a methods course, and (c) to determine if telecollaboration could be successfully and seamlessly integrated within the course. Following a review of the literature, the program is described and teacher candidate perceptions are shared. Findings reveal limitations and challenges for social studies methods instructors. Suggestions for future telecollaborative experiences are provided. It is common for social studies teachers to encourage cooperation, respect, and clear communicatio n in the classroom. It is not so common for true, substantive collaboration to be a part of classrooms every day, mainly due to inexperience, inconvenience, lack of shared planning time, and minimal administrative/technical support. Consider th