A Pilot Study: Improving the Experiential Learning of Post Traditional Undergraduates through Virtual Simulation
Abstract: A pilot study where an investigation of post-traditional preservice teachers using virtual simulation technology will be discussed. The current problem or issue in regard to our post-traditional pre-service teachers is most of these students are only able to serve the number of required hours as posed by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission in order to obtain certification. Although there are multiple reasons why our post-traditional pre-service teachers are unable to serve additional hours as those hours served by their traditional peers, the most important reason is having to work full time and also having a family. The virtual simulation allows the post-traditional pre-service teachers the ability to have additional time in a school or school-related settings where they are able to observe and practice necessary skills, virtually. Our discussion will cover the investigation of how students respond to strategies that are incorporated in an undergraduate level class in a teacher education program using virtual simulation.