Browsing by Author "Zimmerman, Toni Schindler, advisor"

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Open Access
Developing knowledge and skills to teach multicultural education
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2007) Aberle, Jennifer T. Mattern, author; Kees, Nathalie L., advisor; Zimmerman, Toni Schindler, advisor
In order to promote effective multicultural education in an increasingly diverse society such as the United States, understanding processes and factors that help teachers build knowledge and skills for integrating social justice and diverse perspectives into their teaching is important. The purpose of this study was to contribute to the dialogue that is bridging the gap between theoretical and empirical issues of multicultural education with the practices of teaching among diversity (Ali & Ancis, 2005; Banks, 2003; 2006; Banks & Banks, 2004; Gay, 2000; 2004; Sleeter & Bernal, 2004). The focus of this study was on teachers -- not as conduits by which information is transferred to students -- but as individuals with beliefs and experiences that inform their construction of meaning and knowledge, which is inextricably linked with what and how they teach. Therefore, understanding processes of development for teaching in multicultural ways is essential to advance effective teaching in a diverse society.
Open Access
Pastoral self-care: maintaining a balance to serve others: a narrative inquiry into the experience of church-based clergy
(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2011) Morse, John B., author; Banning, James, advisor; Zimmerman, Toni Schindler, advisor; Kees, Nathalie L., committee member; Benn, Mark S., committee member
Clergy in a church-based setting are under tremendous demands as they try to serve many people in multiple roles. Often they are called upon to be counselors, preachers, business CEOs, mediators, organizational psychologists, and to function as a moral compass for others. They are expected to perform these duties with superhuman perfection which takes a toll on the individuals and their families. At some time in their career, a majority of clergy experience burnout to some degree (Melander and Eppley, 2002) and must have a plan to keep balanced. This research study examined the phenomena of clergy burnout and resiliency through the methodology of a qualitative narrative inquiry. Interviews were conducted with ministers working in mid-sized churches to discover the challenges they experienced and the strategies they utilized to maintain themselves for a life-long career. The clergy's insights and techniques were organized through a thematic analysis that lends to the use of the PIESS model (physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual needs) to categorically group their ideas. Additionally, there were recommendations for how congregations and denominations can support their clergy for a lifetime of service. The interviewees also had many theories of what leads to burnout and even pastoral disasters that are included in this study. With purposeful planning and good boundaries, a minister can develop a lifestyle that remains balanced and prevents burnout. Without such a plan, it is difficult to participate long-term in this demanding profession and remain effective. Worse yet, some clergy continue their work long after burnout and either become ineffective or turn to behaviors that are destructive to themselves or others. The potential for damage is great as is the potential for effective and meaningful spiritual leadership when balance is maintained.