Analysis of Initial Teacher Training for the European Area: A Key Instrument of Social Transformation

Abstract

University plays a vital role in the social development of students, and, in line with this premise, the main foundations for the creation of the European Higher Education Area are based on the social perspective for its promotion. The introduction of the Spanish university system into the European Higher Education Area has had an impact on initial teacher training. In order to maintain a balance from the social perspective, this work analyses the student's perception of a bachelor's degree in early childhood education and primary education and a master's in secondary education on the implications of the European convergence process for their initial training. It is a descriptive study that uses an "ad hoc" scale as an instrument for data collection, addressed to students from two Spanish universities (n=682). Results show the positive evaluation of the student towards the practicum, understood as a complement to their academic training, as well as the coherence between the theoretical and practical contents in the different subjects, among other aspects. However, it also criticizes the development of subjects taught by several professors, as well as the lack of information disseminated by the university on the implications that this European process has generated in the teaching-learning process. These perceptions are more favorable in master's students than in undergraduate students. This allows the identification of the potentialities and limitations of the European process for the initial teacher training.

The development of skills and awareness in integrating content, teaching methods, and technology in the learning management for teachers in the education sandbox, Thailand

“…The education sandbox or Education Innovation Zone is a designated area strategically focused on driving educational development to significantly enhance Thailand's global competitiveness in the 21st century. This concept is rooted in the idea of developing spaces that promote growth in various aspects, including the economy, society, culture, and technologies that impact the lives of everyone in the community (Mangkhang et al, 2021;Palomino et al, 2020;Spours et al, 2020). One key characteristic of this initiative is fostering collaboration among schools, businesses, and organizations within the community.…”