The Dual Role of a Reflective Future Teacher during School Practise

Abstract

Introduction: Teaching and learning are processes that significantly impact one’s future. Active participation in school practises serves as a strong foundation for future educators. This paper aims to present the viewpoints and feedback of university students on chemistry lessons conducted in schools by fellow university students as part of their training. The study explores how these prospective teachers perceive lessons while simultaneously playing the roles of both the teacher and an observer. It also investigates their ability to identify areas in need of support and those that require further development during their subsequent pre-service teacher training courses. Methods: Quantitative data was collected through formal documents, specifically observation sheets. The study’s participants were university students enrolled in pre-service teacher training programs who conducted chemistry lessons in school settings. These participants assumed the dual roles of instructors and observers during the lessons they taught. Results: Analysis of the observation sheets revealed that the experience of assuming both teaching and observing roles contributed to the enhancement of the pre-service teachers’ reflective attitudes. This finding suggests the positive impact of this dual role on their professional development. Discussion: Teaching demands a blend of pedagogical knowledge and the ability to reflect, as evidenced by a study at Jagiellonian University’s Faculty of Chemistry. This research, aimed at understanding the effectiveness of trainee teachers, highlighted the importance of creativity, proper communication, and skills in interpersonal relations for educators. While the research provided valuable insights, there’s a call for more extensive studies to gain deeper understandings and address challenges such as classroom management and student engagement. Limitations: It is important to acknowledge certain limitations within this study. The scope of the investigation was restricted by the size and composition of the sample of participants. Consequently, the outcomes cannot be generalised to the broader population of pre-service teachers. Conclusions: The findings of this research highlight the importance of adopting a dual-role methodology in teacher education. By assuming both teaching and observational roles, aspiring teachers acquire a more profound understanding of their pedagogical techniques and recognize potential enhancements. Engaging in such reflective practices promises to enhance their subsequent teaching experiences. This study emphasizes the advantages of weaving hands-on teaching experiences into teacher training, fostering a more introspective and effective teaching methodology.