Bridging the Gap or Building a Burden? Pre-service EFL Teachers’ Perspectives on the National Education Academy

Authors : Batuhan Selvi, Zelal Çoban, Suheyla Demirkol Orak
Pages : 413-425
View : 160 | Download : 192
Publication Date : 2025-12-31
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Teacher education has undergone numerous reforms globally to meet evolving educational demands. In Türkiye, the introduction of the National Education Academy (NEA) marks a significant shift in teacher preparation, aiming to provide structured theoretical and practical training to better equip graduates for the teaching profession. This study investigates the perspectives of pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers on the recently introduced NEA. Using a qualitative case study design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 pre-service EFL teachers from various academic levels to explore their views on the necessity of the NEA, its alignment with university education, and its potential impact on their professional development. The findings revealed a mixed reception among participants. While some viewed the NEA as a valuable opportunity for continuous professional development—particularly for noneducation graduates—others perceived it as redundant and burdensome. Key concerns included overlap between the NEA curriculum and existing university coursework, financial and psychological stress caused by extended training, and potential delays in entering the teaching profession. The study identified seven themes, including general awareness, concerns about professional trajectory, and perceived differences between the NEA and undergraduate education. Many participants advocated for enhancing university curricula to eliminate the need for additional post-graduate training. By addressing pre-service teachers’ perceptions, this research highlights critical areas for improvement in the design and implementation of the NEA, contributing to the ongoing discourse on teacher education reform in Türkiye
Keywords : Öğretmen eğitimi, İngilizce öğretmeni adayları, MillÎ Eğitim Akademisi, Öğretmen eğitimi reformu

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL