Developing a Strategy for Linking Theory and Practice in Teacher Education

Abstract

It was a descriptive study to identify the gaps between theory and practice in teacher education. The objectives and hypothesis were formulated for the study, requiring information about the courses that are creating the gap and then making a strategy for filling those identified gaps. There were 220 Govt. girls' high schools in Charsada. Mardan, Nowshera, and Peshawar District. The total number of female senior subject teachers was 1178, and principals was 220. All the teaching faculty members of IER and Qurtaba University Peshawar were also included. All these constituted the population of the study. The study sample was selected using convenient sampling. An opinionnaire was the primary tool of research. The literature review was also an instrument to fit the study in the general framework of research. The results revealed that a thoroughly prepared and well-equipped teacher is needed for a better education system. Despite comprehensive objectives, a gap is still found between theory and practice. The foremost point was that perspective teachers must be taught to work with diverse students. The teachers found it hard to mingle theory and practice with each other. Practical exposure, use of electronic media, making alterations, and modifying teaching methodology according to learners' requirements were also missed features. After discovering the loopholes, the researcher developed a proposed solution in which practicum and action research were given utmost importance and weightage.