Preservice Teachers' Perceptions of Teacher Self-Efficacy in Kuwait Public Schools: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

The research investigates pre-service teachers’ self-efficacy within the context of Kuwait’s public education system. The purpose of this research paper is to investigate preservice teachers’ knowledge of teacher self-efficacy, their perceptions of its importance and impact on their instruction, and to identify factors that the preservice teachers feel contribute to the development of positive self-efficacy. The research was conducted directly with the preservice teachers using the qualitative research method with structured interview questions. Results indicate that preservice teachers are aware of teacher self-efficacy, believe it influences their instruction in specific ways and can identify specific factors they believe play a key role in the development of high levels of teacher self-efficacy as they complete their preservice teacher education programs.