Teachers’ Perceptions of the Present and Optimum Status of the In-Service EFL Teacher Preparation Programs

Abstract

The present study sought the different perceptions of Iranian EFL instructors and teachers on the present and optimum status of in-service programs. A 26-item questionnaire completed by 90 participants, thirty of whom were instructors and the rest were teachers, revealed that instructors and teachers had different conceptions about these in-service programs. In the light of the results gained from questionnaire and interview, it is suggested that although most teachers were satisfied with these programs, they lacked adequate motivation to participate in these programs. Moreover, most instructors were not also satisfied with the present in-service programs, and they were looking for reforms in the educational plans and programs. The findings also suggest that, on the one hand, instructors should provide teachers with appropriate motives to enthusiastically take part in these classes, and they should feel responsible to address teachers' weaknesses and strengths both theoretically and practically. On the other hand, teachers should seize theses opportunities with both hands to ameliorate and refresh their English knowledge. Therefore, it is suggested instructors and teachers should reconcile as far as methodological and pedagogical implications are concerned.