Experiences Of Pre-service Teachers Research Articles

Creating Digital Storytelling as Digital Materials in Mathematics Education

The digitalization of stories through technology-supported software has created the concept of digital stories. In recent years, researchers have been making efforts to investigate the effects of digital stories that have started to be used as digital materials in education. This study aims to evaluate the digital stories created by preservice mathematics teachers for mathematics courses, their experiences in the process of creating digital stories, and their views on the use of digital storytelling as digital materials in mathematics courses. This qualitatively designed study was conducted with the participation of 49 preservice elementary mathematics teachers and lasted 7 weeks. It was found that the digital stories created by the participating preservice teachers were moderately acceptable. Participants characterized digital storytelling as materials that are interesting, support teaching, and provide visual richness. They also stated that they intended to use digital storytelling when they begin working as teachers. However, due to the time-consuming nature of the process, most participants stated that they would use ready-made digital stories instead of creating them themselves. Additionally, the results of this study provide information about the experiences of preservice teachers regarding the process of creating digital storytelling.

메타버스와 인공지능을 반영한 최신 음악교육매체 기반예비교사 교육과정 적용 및 경험 탐색

The study aims to examine experiences and draw implications by designing and applying a pre-service teacher curriculum based on the latest media in music education that reflects of the metaverse and artificial intelligence. Using backward design as stage, 15-session curriculum was planned, and appropriate media were selected for each session. To analyze the experience of pre-service teachers, the survey was planned with 8 TPACK questions of technological pedagogical content knowledge and 9 questions of instructional self-efficacy, and the subjective experience was closely examined by analyzing reflective journals, performance tasks, observation diaries, and learning management systems (LMS). As a result, a significant increase in the mean TPACK scores of pre-service teachers was observed. Observations indicated that tailored learning tools could be developed using media functions, and media-based instruction methods were effectively recognized. Descriptive analysis of the self-efficacy survey revealed high average scores, particularly in 'motivation' and 'instruction planning suitable for social flow,' while 'strategies for underachievement' showed relatively low scores. To improve the media-based curriculum: First, media-based curricula should be implemented considering the various levels of prospective teachers and should have sufficient time. Second, suitable media must be selected in elementary classrooms, considering student differences, and a curriculum addressing underachievement is needed. Third, a stable digital environment should be ensured through regular checks of equipment, with additional support for headsets during sound editing. This study hopes to help pre-service teachers enhance their technological pedagogical content knowledge and develop media-based music education for the digital age.

Beyond Games: Unspoken Challenges of Pre- Service Physical Education Teachers – A Pilot Study

Studies on teacher preparation highlight the importance of practical experiences such as internships in adequately preparing pre-service teachers for the demands of the profession. However, there has been a lack of focus on the specific difficulties encountered by pre-service physical education (PE) teachers during internships. This study utilized qualitative methods to examine the specific obstacles encountered by eight pre-service physical education teachers while completing their internships at private secondary schools in the northern region of the Philippines. Through thematic analysis of weekly reflective journals, four main themes were identified: personal well-being and emotional strain, classroom management and student interactions, instructional practices and pedagogical challenges, and school environment and institutional factors. The results emphasize the importance of integrating well-being strategies into PE teacher education programs, improving PE-specific classroom management training, and promoting stronger partnerships between universities and schools to offer consistent support, resources, and practical experiences for future teachers navigating the complexities of the PE teaching environment. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the experiences of pre-service PE teachers and provide practical suggestions for enhancing teacher preparation and support systems.

Professional experience of Chinese international pre-service teachers in Australia’s early childhood education: professional learning and belonging

ABSTRACT International pre-service teachers (PSTs) can struggle to engage with Professional Experience (PE) communities in an Australian Early Childhood Education context. This qualitative case study examines three first-year Chinese international PSTs’ PE in different early childhood settings in Australia. Framed by Bourdieu’s analytical concepts, this paper explores Chinese PSTs’ culturally shaped understanding of PE and mentoring expectations, showing how this dimension of their habitus is differentiated and differentiating. We argue that with a supportive learning community, the rich cultural and linguistic repertoire of international PSTs can add to capital and funds of knowledge of Australian Early Childhood Education.

Case Studies as a Tool for Merging Theory and Practise in Foreign Language Didactics

This study examines the implementation of the case study method in the Didactics of a German course at the University of Ljubljana. It was introduced in response to the challenges of combining theoretical knowledge with practical application in foreign language teacher education. The research explores how this method, traditionally used in disciplines such as law and medicine, enhances the learning experience for pre-service German language teachers. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collects quantitative and qualitative data from first-year Masters students to assess the effectiveness of the method in improving critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply theoretical concepts in the classroom. The results indicate that while students found the case studies highly effective in linking theory and practice and motivating learning, there is room for improvement in developing critical thinking and teaching skills. The study concludes that the case study method is a valuable tool for experiential learning in teacher education and offers significant potential for wider application across university courses.

Implementing Critical Pedagogy in EFL Classes: Pre-Service Teachers’ Experiences

The application of Critical Pedagogy (CP) based on strengthening and valuing the identity of each person to educate them in diversity and achieve social equity becomes key to helping learners identify themselves as agents of change to contribute to the creation of social solutions. The study reports the experiences of pre-service teachers of the Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) undergraduate program while implementing CP to teach English to children and teenagers who are beneficiaries of a Charity Foundation in Cuenca, Ecuador. The findings show that pre-service teachers were able to implement the principles of CP not only to teach English but also to foster in students a sense of self-identity and social justice, achieving the goals of using this approach.

Exploring teachers’ corrective feedback in EFL classrooms: Pre-service teachers’ reflections

Despite the growing body of research on corrective feedback in foreign language learning, there remains a gap in understanding the specific strategies utilized by EFL teachers as observed by pre-service teachers firsthand. Based on the observed experiences of EFL pre-service teachers during their observational field teaching practice, this study aims to analyze how English teachers give their corrective feedback. This study employed a qualitative research approach with a case study design. Eleven Indonesian EFL pre-service teachers who had finished their field teaching practice were involved in the study. The qualitative data were gathered using reflective Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and semi-structured interviews. The result of qualitative data analysis revealed three emerging themes of teachers’ corrective feedback: explicit correction, recasting, and metalinguistic. The findings showed that teachers regularly use direct corrective feedback in their instructional context. These insights enable foreign language educators to choose appropriate feedback strategies based on learners’ needs, enhancing teaching practices, learner outcomes, and teacher training programs.

A Responsive Internship Program from the Viewpoint of Beginning Teachers

The final semester of a four-year education course involves a student teaching or internship period that poses a number of challenges to cooperating teachers, college supervisors, student teachers, and school administrators, among other stakeholders. This stage connects the theoretical and practical in real-world learning environments, acting as a pillar in the professional development of future educators. A seamless transition from theory to practice is made possible by responsive internship programs that integrate classroom experiences with pre-service training in response to evolving educational demands. This study explores the perspectives and experiences of pre-service teachers in internship programs using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Semi-structured interviews with stakeholders in Visayas, Philippines provide priceless information about program effectiveness and areas for improvement. Important issues come to light, highlighting the need of preparing teacher interns with flexible abilities, incorporating technology, learner-centered approaches, encouraging cooperation between organizations and educational institutions, and professionalism. Experiential learning and exposure to a range of student populations are essential for refining instructional strategies and fostering professional development. The study provides valuable information that may be utilized to improve internship programs, which in turn helps to foster the professional growth of new teachers and improves students’ educational achievement.

Exploring the Experience and Meaning of Pre-service Teachers’ Teaching Training: About Teacher Leadership

Exploring the Experience and Meaning of Pre-service Teachers’ Teaching Training: About Teacher Leadership

Challenges and Instructional Adaptations of Mountain Province State Polytechnic College Pre-service Teachers to Students with Sensory Difficulties

Inclusive education aims to provide quality education in a flexible environment for students with special needs. Pre-service teachers must possess pedagogical knowledge, adaptability, resourcefulness, and effective teaching skills to support students' holistic development. This study explores the experiences of pre-service teachers of school year 2022-2023 of Mountain Province State Polytechnic College from various majors, focusing on inclusive practices for students with sensory difficulties. Findings reveal challenges in training, preparation for differentiated instruction, and collaboration with Special Education (SpEd) teachers. Despite challenges, participants employed instructional adaptations such as differentiated instruction, learner-friendly classrooms, technology integration, and multi-sensory tools. The study underscores the need for more training programs and partnerships with SpEd specialists.

The Relevance of Curriculum for Pre-Service Teachers in Addressing Dynamic Classroom Changes in South Africa

In South Africa, the educational landscape is characterised by constant evolution and dynamic classroom changes, driven by technological advancements, diverse student populations, and evolving pedagogical approaches. Pre-service teachers are crucial in navigating these changes and fostering effective learning environments. This systematic literature analysis explores the relevance of curriculum for pre-service teachers in addressing the challenges posed by dynamic classroom contexts in South Africa. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of existing literature, this study examines the alignment between pre-service teacher education curricula and the evolving needs of classrooms in South Africa. Key themes explored include integrating technology, cultural responsiveness, inclusive education practices, and pedagogical flexibility. The analysis also considers the efficacy of current pre-service teacher training programmes in preparing teachers to meet the diverse needs of students in dynamic classroom settings. Furthermore, the study investigates the perceptions and experiences of pre-service teachers regarding the adequacy of their curriculum in equipping them for the realities of South African classrooms. By synthesising findings from various sources, this research aims to inform curriculum development efforts and enhance the preparation of pre-service teachers for the multifaceted challenges of teaching in South African schools.

Experiences of Preservice Teachers of Color at a Predominantly White Institution

Experiences of Preservice Teachers of Color at a Predominantly White Institution

English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching practicum: Problems and suggestions for solutions

Although studies on the teaching practicum experiences of pre-service English teachers have tried to identify some problems and offer solutions, research addressing the issue from the perspectives of all stakeholders by examining both the expectations of pre-service teachers and the potential problems they face in this process is rather limited. In this regard, as part of a larger project, this session aims to uncover prospective English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers’ expectations and problems during the practicum process based on the opinions of various stakeholders. 160 pre-service teachers studying in the final year of an English language teacher education program, 22 teacher educators, and 39 English teachers supervising those teacher candidates during the practicum process participated in the study. Data came from two sources: reflective reports requested from all participants of the study in the fourth and eighth weeks of the 12-week practicum process and the focus group interviews conducted with five pre-service teachers, five university supervisors, and five cooperating teachers. The analyses documented problems related to pre-service teachers, their teaching skills, classroom management, pupils, teaching procedures, and school context. Maximizing practice opportunities in quantity and quality and higher levels of communication and interaction among the stakeholders were the main suggestions as solutions to problems. These recommendations and some suggestions for future research will potentially increase the quality and effectiveness of the practicum process.

Teacher educators’ understanding of and activities for preparing preservice teachers to Teach for social transformation in K-12 educational settings

This study explores teacher educators' (TEs) understanding of and pedagogical activities for preparing preservice teachers to teach for social transformation in K-12 educational settings. The participants were 17 TEs at a university-based teacher education program in the United States. Data were interviews, teaching artifacts, and observations. Using ideology-in-pieces framework (Philip, 2011), TEs' complex sensemaking and their enactments are analyzed focusing on cognitive, social and structural dimensions. The analyses reveal TE's uneven attention to structural dimension as well as the roles of their professional interactions and membership. Implications for providing programmatic, intentional, and coordinated experiences for preservice teachers are discussed.

Evaluating Digital Competence in Graduate-Level Chinese International Education Programs: A Dual Perspective on Teacher Needs and Training Models

This paper employs a mixed research methodology, integrating a questionnaire survey and sample interviews, to assess the current state of digital competence and identify the factors influencing it among international Chinese pre-service teachers. Building upon the authoritative model framework, this study developed a questionnaire on the digital competence of international Chinese pre-service teachers and collected data from 100 master candidates of international Chinese language education from leading domestic universities in China. Upon analysis of the data, it was determined that the digital competence of international Chinese pre-service teachers is currently satisfactory overall, although there is a notable discrepancy in development. In particular, competences related to digital teaching, research, and pedagogical innovation are less developed. The training experience of international Chinese pre-service teachers has a significant correlation with their digital competence. However, the experience of international Chinese teaching does not have a significant effect on their digital competence, nor does it have a significant effect on their digital teaching competence or digital pedagogical innovation competence. This study identifies the reasons for this and proposes to refine the training system for digital competence, develop and optimize shared digital resource repositories, and enhance the capacity for innovation in pedagogical practice.

Learning biodiversity care in everyday life: teacher education in contrasting biocultural contexts

Earth’s biodiversity decline poses critical biocultural challenges, including food sovereignty and climate change adaptation. Teacher education can play a pivotal role in addressing biodiversity care. This study explores how preservice teachers learn about biodiversity care in teacher education programs, focusing on local biocultural contexts to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education pertinent to local communities. Conducted across three diverse Education Faculties in Chile, qualitative methods such as questionnaires, syllabi analysis, and interviews were employed. Findings reveal that preservice teachers primarily acquire biodiversity knowledge through natural sciences courses, albeit with variations across Faculties. The study highlights the importance of situated perception in connecting biodiversity education to the everyday experiences of preservice teachers. It also underscores the ethical and political dimensions of biodiversity education, including participation, interdependence, social commitment, and integration into daily life. Recommendations include fostering collective responsibility, contextualizing teaching methods, incorporating hands-on projects, and modeling responsible biodiversity stewardship in teacher education.

Facilitating Productive Struggle in an Online Secondary Education Mathematics Methods Course: Experiences of Pre-Service Teachers

This research investigated preservice teachers’ (PSTs) experiences with productive struggle in an online environment, and how it influenced their pedagogical knowledge. This action research study reports on secondary mathematics pre-service teachers (PSTs) who completed mathematical tasks in weekly synchronous Zoom sessions to develop their understanding of productive struggle. Vygotsky’s (1978) Social Constructivist Theory and the growth mindset framework (Boaler, 2016; Dweck 2006; 2008) provided the lenses through which the research was designed and analyzed. Findings show that presenting opportunities for PSTs to experience productive struggle informs their pedagogical practice, and that providing this experience in an online environment is possible. PSTs gained an increased understanding of the importance of collaborative work, asking purposeful questions, and the alignment between productive struggle and improved mathematical understanding.

Pre-Service English Teachers’ Experiences in Joining Kampus Mengajar Program

Kampus Mengajar is part of Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) initiatives introduced by the Minister of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia in early 2020. The objective is to enhance the quality of university graduates, enabling them to thrive in the era of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and Society 5.0. Additionally, the program aims to elevate the professionalism of students aspiring to become teachers. The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of pre-service English teachers in joining this program. This study employed a qualitative method with a narrative approach. Eight students of the English Education Study Program at a university in Indonesia participated in Kampus Mengajar were interviewed. They were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The data were collected through interviews and documentation. The analysis of the data resulted in the identification of four themes. These themes encompassed the motivation for participating in Kampus Mengajar program, the various types of activities undertaken, the lessons gained from teaching and non-teaching activities, and the skills that were improved throughout the program. Based on the results of this study, the participants shared remarkably similar experiences aiming to enhance their skills as university graduates and prospective teachers.

TEACHER EDUCATORS’ EXPERIENCES OF USING THE MURSION® SIMULATION PROGRAMME: A CASE OF A SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITY

This article explores the experiences of teacher educators at a South African university regarding their use of the Mursion® simulation program during pre-service teacher training. The study aimed to investigate these teacher educators’ experiences and perceptions of using the Mursion® simulation software by means of semi-structured interviews, and subsequent thematic analyses. Three themes were predominantly discussed during the interviews, namely, initial impressions of the Mursion® software, favourable aspects associated with the software, and less-favourable aspects associated with the software. The respondents’ initial impressions revealed a mixture of satisfaction, excitement, and uncertainty. The favourable aspects included the realism of the virtual classroom environment and experience, the opportunity for practice and skill development, and the potential for increased pre-service teacher preparedness. The less-favourable aspects highlighted were some anxiety and intimidation related to the technical nature of the software and the initial learning curve. The findings suggest that the software has the potential to enhance teacher education by providing a realistic and immersive classroom experience for pre-service teachers. The importance of technological support and training for educators to fully utilize such programs is also highlighted.

Navigating Foreign Language Teaching Anxiety: Insights from Pre-Service Teachers during Teacher Professional Education Practicum

This study focuses on the experiences of pre-service teachers that may trigger anxiety and delve into the potential benefits and effectiveness of FLTA in enhancing language acquisition and proficiency. By conducting in-depth studies and investigations on this topic, researchers look at the impact of FLTA. They can better understand how FLTA can optimize their problem-solving skills to facilitate language learning and provide valuable insight for language education, especially in EFL classrooms. This study used a narrative strategy to investigate the pre-service EFL teachers' experiences with teaching foreign language anxiety during their teaching practice while enrolled in the Teacher Profession Education Program. The subjects of this study were 3 English pre-service teachers who had completed teaching practice in junior and senior high schools during a professional teaching program in the city of Solo and its surroundings, Central Java, Indonesia. As a result of this study, several sources contributed to participants' experience of teaching foreign language anxiety, such as self-perception of language proficiency, leading inexperience, lack of student interest, fear of negative evaluation, and lack of time and class management. Participants in the teaching practicum also attempt to confront and overcome their worries; the strategies are personal coping strategies, professional coping strategies, social coping strategies, and institutional coping strategies. Although the participants experienced some anxiety while teaching practicum, they overcame it through various strategies. So, leading practicum activities from one meeting to the following allowed participants to develop their abilities and overcome their concerns about teaching in the EFL classroom.