Analyzing the effective requirements and prerequisites of English language teacher training and improvement courses: a qualitative study

Authors
Toktam ParhizkarKhadiv 1
Farhad Fahandezh 2
Shahram Afraz 1
1 Qeshm Branch, Islamic Azad University
2 Bandar Lenge Branch, Islamic Azad University
Abstract
The aim of the current research was to analyze the requirements and prerequisites of the effective training and improvement courses for English teachers. The method of the current research was a qualitative content analysis type. The statistical population of the research included all English language teachers in English language teaching centers in Shiraz, based on theoretical (purposive) sampling, interviews were conducted with 26 teachers and data were extracted from the interviews. In order to analyze the data obtained from the interview, Granheim and Lundman's qualitative method was used. The results of data analysis have been presented through three stages of open, central and selective coding. The general results of the research showed lesson design and presentation, classroom management, student evaluation, interaction, teaching strategies, teachers' characteristics, activity management, and technique. Dealing with errors as found to be among the key requirements in the training and improvement of English language teachers. Also, the goals of the course, the characteristics of the course, the experiences of the teachers, the overall evaluation of the course, specialization and supplementary activities are considered prerequisites and influencing factors on the training and improvement courses of English language teachers, which can be included in the program. Planning these courses as best as possible will be of great help. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that paying attention to the necessary requirements and prerequisites examined in this research has a key and pivotal role in improving the training courses and improvement of English teachers. Therefore, not paying attention to these requirements in the design of training courses and improvement of instructors will result in low quality of learning and training of learners.

Keywords
classroom observation
EFL teachers
on the job-training course
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