CHALLENGES FACED BY ESL TRAINEE TEACHERS DURING THE PRACTICUM: A CASE STUDY IN THE INSTITUTE OF TEACHER EDUCATION CAMPUS

Abstract

The teaching practicum is a pivotal stage in teacher education, providing pre-service English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers with hands-on classroom experience. However, this period is often accompanied by numerous challenges that affect their professional development and instructional effectiveness. This case study explores the challenges faced by five pre-service ESL teachers during their practicum, focusing on classroom management, cultural and linguistic barriers, instructional confidence, mentorship, and resource limitations in the district of Seberang Perai Tengah. Using a qualitative research approach, data were gathered through open-ended interviews, reflective journals, and classroom observations. Thematic analysis is employed to identify the key challenges and potential strategies for overcoming them. Findings from the study indicate that inadequate institutional support, low student engagement, and limited access to teaching materials further exacerbate these difficulties. The study aims to provide insights into improving teacher education programs by incorporating structured mentorship, reflective practices, and enhanced training methodologies to better equip pre-service ESL teachers for the complexities of real-world classrooms.
Keywords: Pre-service ESL teachers, teach