PRINCIPALS' PERSPECTIVE ON SCHOOL-BASED TEACHER EDUCATION

Abstract

Teaching is one of the most important professions in the society. The teacher is the main facilitator of the education provided to the students. The teacher should update the knowledge by completing his / her training requirements from time to time after the basic teacher education he / she receives. A school-based teacher education program has been introduced for school teachers for this purpose. The main objective of the study was to identify the professional development needs of school teachers through this school-based teacher education programs. The main objective is to study the existing school-based teacher education. Accordingly, the study was conducted based on three specific objectives. Identify principals' perspective on school-based teacher education, identify problems and issues faced in the implementation of school-based teacher education and Make recommendations for the development of school-based teacher education. Data obtained from a questionnaire and an interview revealed that principals have gained awareness and training in school-based teacher education programs. It was also observed that a school-based teacher education program has been included in the annual plan of the school and the training needs of the teachers have been identified and there is an active contribution of the teachers. It was revealed that they must seek the help of experts and face financial problems. Accordingly, it was concluded that the Denuwara Zone principals have a good understanding of school-based teacher development. Recommendations were also made to further raise awareness on a school-based teacher development program, to establish an expert pool, to formulate a regulatory program and to increase financial allocations.