The Complexities of Supporting Asian International Pre-Service Teachers as They Undertake Practicum
Source: Asia-Pacific Journal of Teacher Education, Volume 37, Issue 1 February 2009 , pages 79 - 94
Increasing numbers of Asian international students are choosing to undertake their tertiary studies in English-speaking countries. For universities, international students are an important source of revenue. However, Asian international students face multiple challenges in adapting to a foreign culture, understanding the expectations of their role, and adjusting to language, communication and cultural differences. These challenges are manifested, in particular, during practicum or field experience.
The article explored the concerns of 20 Asian pre-service teachers before and after their practicum in Australian schools by drawing upon data from focus group interviews. Language barriers and cultural differences were identified concerns before the practicum.
Furthermore, concerns about their relationship with their supervising teachers and the limited time in which they had to learn also emerged after the practicum. Whilst the findings are limited to the present study, implications for supporting Asian international pre-service teachers during practicum are discussed.