Perceptions on an EFL Teacher Education Program: Voices from Teacher Candidates

Abstract

The present study aims to discover the perceptions of teacher candidates about a teacher education program, which is a reflection of the overall education system, in a foundation university based in Turkey. Since teacher candidates are part of the system of teacher education, it might be crucial to gather their insights about the program that they are provided with. In this light, this study examines teacher candidates (n=33) perceptions through a questionnaire, which has been prepared by using Peacock's (2009) evaluation model. In addition to the questionnaire, semistructured interviews (n=3) have been held to gather in-depth qualitative data. This study might have implications for the evaluation of the ELT program from teacher candidates' point of view. The findings of the study indicate the participants' perceptions on the harmony among courses, balance of teacher and student centeredness, effectiveness of training on the usage and adaptation of materials, transferability of skills to the local context, etc. The teacher candidates also have revealed their thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of the program while they come up with suggestions to overcome the weaknesses.