Examining practicums within initial teacher education programs: Understanding the dimensions of professional development of pre-service teachers

Abstract

Practicums represent vital opportunities for the professional development of pre-service teachers. However, there are limited studies examining the dimensions of professional development and other external factors that influence the outcome of practicums. This study fills this research gap by providing a large-scale evaluation of the data from several years of practicums in an initial teacher education program. Using structural equation modelling, we explored the interplay of professional knowledge, professional practice, and professional engagement across practicum stages, revealing their mutually reinforcing nature. We also investigated the role of socio-economic status (SES) of the schools in which the practicums were undertaken. Our findings highlight a dynamic evolution of the practicum process. Initially, the practicum’s outcome is primarily impacted by professional knowledge, gradually shifting influence towards professional practice. In the final stages, the role of professional engagement became most prominent. Additionally, the SES of the practicum school influences the relative importance of professional knowledge and professional practice, with practicums at lower socioeconomic schools emphasizing professional practice. The educational and practical implications of our work are further discussed.