Evaluation of the latest English language teacher training programme in Turkey: Teacher trainees' perspective

Abstract

The present study evaluated the latest English Language Teacher Training Programme in Turkey from the viewpoint of students who were enrolled on the programme for a period of four years. Participants were 90 last year students who were enrolled in the English Language Teaching department at Uludag University, Turkey. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire which contained the inventory of programme courses, each of which was rated by the students regarding three criteria: the contribution of the given course(s) to (1) the personal development of the students, the contribution of the given course(s) to (2) the professional development of the students, and (3) whether the students think that the course(s) provided them with theoretical and practical knowledge applicable during their active teaching life. The participants were also asked to rate whether the course contents or course lecturers/instructors contributed more to their development. Additionally, student opinions about their education, the courses and the lecturers/instructors were gathered by means of an interview form. Results suggested that the latest English Language Teacher Training Programme (ELTTP) is not the exact source of knowledge and skills that will meet the needs and interests of the teacher trainees. The findings propose that programmes should be structured in such a way that they not only meet the needs of the students and society but also provide practical and beneficial contents to the individuals.