Conducting action research projects in a teacher preparation program.

Abstract

This article deals with a study carried out at Universidad de Caldas, a public institution for higher education in Colombia, South America. The purpose is to state the impact of the Action Research Model on the professional and personal education of beginning teachers along their English teaching practicum at public elementary, middle and high school. The study finds a positive effect of Action Research on teacher trainees, as reflected on the higher self awareness of the teachers’ role, increased reflective skills, and a greater mastery of research skills and curriculum reinforcement in the participant institutions. These findings should contribute to the enrichment of Colombian public teacher education and teaching profession.