Abstract

This study aimed to explore elementary teachers’ experiences and perceptions of English in-service teacher education and English language teaching. Fifty elementary English teachers took part in the survey. Of these, ten teachers were involved in the focus group research. Their interviews, reflection journals, and lesson observations and analyses were collected. Data were analyzed through a mixed-method approach, primarily qualitative with quantitative methods as needed. The results are as follows: First, novice teachers found that the provision of English courses in novice teacher training was insufficient, but they felt in-service teacher training, graduate programs, teacher learning communities, and mentoring helped improve their teaching abilities. Second, when teaching, novice teachers in the focus group concentrated on phonics and basic language skills and activity- and learner-centered instruction, and they developed effective materials in their English classes. They experienced difficulties teaching English in English and teaching students at different levels. However, they made progress through various trials and errors. Third, for the professional development of novice English teachers, suggestions were made in the areas of teacher education programs, teacher learning communities, schools and administrations, and policies on teachers and teacher education, as well as the novice teachers’ efforts. Significant implications concerning novice English teacher education will be explored in greater detail.

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