Innovative learning environments in New Zealand: Student teachers’ perceptions

Innovations in schooling and the architectural design of schools offer the opportunity to re-examine existing pedagogical practices. Graduating teachers need to be ready to teach and conversant with changing school environments and approaches to school organisation. However, there is a dearth of research that explores the student teachers’ perceptions of their experiences on practicum in innovative learning environments (ILEs). This article discusses the perceptions of over 100 student teachers undertaking primary teaching qualifications in New Zealand. An online questionnaire asked for responses to a range of statements about innovative learning environments (ILEs) and teacher education preparation for this type of school environment. Analysis of the findings indicated a wide range of experiences on professional practices, with more experience of ILEs generally leading to more positive perceptions of these environments. Student teachers perceived that more course-based preparation about ILEs was needed, though others perceived that the best way to learn about ILEs was during professional practice placements.