The Journal of AsiaTEFL Vol.4 No.4 pp. 1-34
A Model of English Teacher Development in Asia Based on Surveys on Teacher Qualifications and Education Programs
Yeon Hee Choi Ewha Womans University, Korea
Hyo Woong Lee Korea Maritime University, Korea
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Abstract

In order to propose a model of English teacher development in Asia, this study has investigated qualifications of primary, secondary and tertiary English teachers (including required degrees and English ability) and pre- and in-service education programs in 16 Asian nations including Korea, China, Indonesia, and Israel. The results of the survey illustrate that most of the Asian regions have strict controls on qualifications of primary and secondary English teachers, but not on those of tertiary teachers. A few regions have specific English proficiency requirements and not many regions have a test for teacher certification. Pre- and inservice English teacher education programs also vary with nations and school levels, but they share similar foci on English proficiency and teaching skills. On the basis of these results, the study suggests five constituents of English teacher qualifications as standards with a variation on their weighting and expected levels across regions, school levels, and teaching experiences. Finally, it proposes a model of English teacher development in Asia for progressive professional development which integrates top-down and bottom-up approaches to teacher education. A renewal system of teachers' license is also suggested.
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