Abstract:

ABSTRACT In this study, the ideal and actual characteristics of an effective English language teacher are studied from the perspectives of prospective and in-service teachers of English. By using a mixed method design, data were collected through interviews with prospective and in-service teachers of English and a survey distributed to prospective teachers of English. The aim of the study was to find the characteristics of the effective English language teacher from the perspectives of the participants, whether or not in-service teachers are found to be effective from the perspective of prospective teachers, and how in-service teachers evaluate themselves as effective teachers. Apart from unearthing the qualities attached to the effective teacher, findings have shown that majority of the prospective teachers do not regard their mentors (in-service teachers) effective. Similarly, in-service teachers claim that not having proper in-service training programs and an updated curriculum, makes it difficult to be an effective teacher of English in their schools. Key Words: English, in-service, prospective teacher, ELT, teacher, effective, teacher education

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