The centrality of cooperating teachers in teacher preparation: challenges and responsibilities for higher education
Alicia N. DayPurpose
This study explores the central role of cooperating teachers in clinical teacher preparation and examines how varying levels of preparation and institutional support influence the consistency and quality of mentoring.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a mixed-methods design, data were collected from 202 cooperating teachers who hosted student teachers at a public university in Kentucky between 2020 and 2024. Quantitative survey results described participants' experience levels and professional backgrounds, while qualitative responses from open-ended items identified themes related to mentoring motivations, challenges and needs.
Findings
Although most respondents were highly experienced and credentialed, many reported uncertainties about expectations, limited training and difficulty balancing instructional and supervisory responsibilities. Participants expressed strong intrinsic commitment to mentoring but identified the need for clearer communication with university supervisors and more structured tools to support feedback, planning and assessment.
Research limitations/implications
The findings informed the development of mentor-support resources that provide role-specific guidance, structured timelines and evidence-based strategies to strengthen feedback and reflection during clinical practice.
Practical implications
The study informed the development of a Cooperating Teacher Mentoring Guidebook that provides role-specific guidance, structured timelines and evidence-based strategies to improve feedback and reflection during clinical practice. Strengthening mentor preparation can enhance preservice teachers' readiness and retention.
Originality/value
By foregrounding the voices of cooperating teachers, this research reframes mentorship as a pedagogical responsibility of higher education and underscores the need for systematic mentor preparation as a strategic priority within teacher education.