Practice Teaching Challenges and Solutions: Basis for Internship Enhancement Program

Abstract

 This study was conducted to determine the practice teaching challenges and their solutions as experienced by student interns of CapSU Pilar. Specifically, it aims to: identify the practice teaching challenges as experienced by student interns; and recommend possible solutions to address these challenges. This quantitative descriptive investigation solicited data from 50 respondents, utilizing a two-part researcher-made questionnaire developed. Part I identified the practice teaching challenges in aspects of Personal Situations, School Management and Design and Implementation of Lesson; Part II was a checklist of possible solutions to address the challenges identified. The data were analyzed using frequency count, mean, percentages, and rank. Results of practice teaching challenges of student interns in terms of its dimensions indicated a verbal interpretation of uncertain with description of moderately challenge. Examining data results, three responses got more highly challenge on items: Professional teaching competencies requirements were not clear during practice teaching, Pre-service teachers have weakness in the use of educational aid and technologies and Pre-service teachers had positive attitude, indicative of gap in communication and clear guidelines or trainings during practice teaching. To address these issues, it was recommended that teacher education programs incorporate competency frameworks, technological teaching aids training, and provide supportive learning settings that encourage both abilities and attitudes among prospective educators. An internship enhancement program on these areas was designed to address the identified gaps.