Enhancing Teacher Training: A SWOT Perspective on Practicum Experiences in Tanzanian Higher Education

Abstract

The teaching practicum spans two semesters in the first and second years of teacher training, during which trainees apply academic knowledge in real-world settings. Prior research highlights the need to observe classroom activities to assess career development trajectories. This study addresses this gap using a descriptive phenomenological design, employing observations, document analysis, and interviews. Snowball sampling recruited 12 teacher trainees from Science and Arts fields during their practicum in Tanzanian secondary schools. Thematic analysis revealed SWOT elements: strengths (progress in the teaching profession), weaknesses (self-doubting tendencies), opportunities (soft skills development), and threats (perceiving teaching as routine business). Findings offer practical insights for improving teacher preparation programs, benefiting educators, students, researchers, and policymakers in enhancing practicum planning and execution

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Keywords

Teaching practicum
,
Teacher trainees
,
analytical impact
,
career development
,
SWOT analysis

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Submitted:
Published: December 31, 2025