Implementation of Teaching Practicum for Primary School Teachers: China, Cambodia and Malawi Case Studies

Abstract

This paper reports findings of a qualitative study that compared the implementation of teaching practicum for primary school teachers in China, Cambodia and Malawi. The study used semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Data sources included policy documents, interviews and literature. The systems theory was employed to make explicit the implementation of teaching practicum, including processes and challenges. Findings show different approaches of teaching practicum in the three countries determined by different environmental expectations, all emphasizing providing student teachers with diverse learning experiences. The study also sheds light on some of the challenges of teaching practicum. These findings underpin the importance of local school authorities in ensuring effective teaching practicum.

Keywords

• teaching practicum; comparative study; systems theory; primary school teacher