The Critical Analysis of the Missing Links and Problems in Iran’s English Teacher Training Courses

This study critically analysed the missing links and problems in Iran's English teacher training courses. ‎The research questions addressed the impact of the lack of emphasis on Second Language Acquisition (SLA) ‎theories in teacher training courses, the perception and potential negative effects of the practicum ‎component, and other factors that hindered effective teacher preparation and professional development. The ‎study adopted an interpretivism paradigm and utilized an exploratory qualitative research approach. The ‎participants consisted of English teachers who had completed Teacher Training Courses (TTC) in Iran. ‎Convenience sampling was employed, and the researchers actively participated in ۲۰۰ hours of TTC courses ‎for participant observation. Data collection methods included interviews and participant observation. The ‎data was analysed using inductive content analysis and thematic analysis. The findings indicated that SLA ‎theories were de-emphasized in TTC, leading to limited knowledge and understanding of language ‎acquisition processes. The practicum component was perceived negatively, with trainees experiencing ‎pressure and anxiety. Other identified factors hindering effective teacher preparation included the short ‎duration and intense coursework, financial constraints, limited impact of SLA theories on teaching ‎approaches, and a lack of modern facilities hindering innovation. The pedagogical implications suggested ‎enhancing the emphasis on SLA theories, redesigning the practicum component to create a supportive ‎learning environment, addressing financial constraints, providing modern facilities, extending course ‎duration, and fostering collaborative learning and peer support. The study provided valuable insights into ‎the problems and offered suggestions for improving the effectiveness of English teacher training courses in ‎Iran‎.

Keywords:

Critical Analysis , (English) Teacher Training Courses , Missing Links , Second Language Acquisition (SLA) theories , Trainees , Critical Analysis , (English) Teacher Training Courses , Missing Links , Second Language Acquisition (SLA) theories , Trainees.