Impact of Online Field Practice on Islamic Education Preservice Teachers: Expectations, Learning Loss, and Professional Skill Formation

Abstract

This study employed qualitative methods to examine the expectations, challenges, learning loss, and development of professional skills among preservice teachers of Islamic education as they engaged in online field practice. Interviews were conducted with individual participants and focus groups, and reflection papers were collected from 46 preservice teachers of Islamic education assigned to an online teaching practicum. Participants had mixed feelings about their online field practice due to a lack of experience and doubts about their preparedness and ability with virtual field practice. Results revealed they experienced setbacks, including a deficiency in pedagogical expertise for virtual instruction and challenges in promoting class communication and involvement online without in-person learning environments. However, virtual teaching, creativity, and improved cognitive abilities were encouraged. It is recommended that educational establishments offer supplementary assistance to preservice teachers trained during the pandemic to augment their professional growth .