A Study of English Language Teachers’ Internship Programs in Iran and Turkey: Similarities, Differences, and Challenges

نویسندگان

1 Assistant Prof, Department of English Language Teaching, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran

2 B.A. Student, Department of English Language Teaching, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran

doi
10.22034/ijce.2024.448472.1569
چکیده

This comparative qualitative study examines English language teachers’ internships in Iran and Turkey, identifying key similarities and differences while addressing challenges and proposing viable solutions. The investigation focuses on two countries with cultural affinities, but differing educational outcomes. A triangulated data collection method was employed, combining documentary analysis and survey study. This involved reviewing primary and secondary sources, including curricula, articles, and formal internship regulations from both settings. To enhance data triangulation, an open-ended questionnaire was distributed virtually to ten English teachers and internship instructors from Iran and Turkey. Their responses were analyzed through content analysis to elucidate internship features and challenges. Simultaneously, documentary data were analyzed using a modified version of Bereday’s four-step method: description, interpretation, juxtaposition, and comparison. Findings reveal that both countries emphasize practical teaching periods following theoretical training, supervised scaffolded teaching before independent practice, and integration of innovative methods and technology into internships. However, significant differences were noted in the duration of internship programs, content of prerequisite courses, and specific procedures. Key common challenges include the selection of internship schools, mentor expertise, and evaluation processes. The study suggests that Iran needs substantial improvements in mentor selection and training, while Turkey could benefit from a focus on enhancing evaluation and assessment methods. Additionally, the study advocates for closer cooperation between education offices and teacher training universities in both countries, promoting ongoing reforms and support to improve the overall quality of internship programs.