Development of Classroom Research Potential for Five-Year Program Pre-Service Teachers in Agriculture, Kasetsart University

Abstract

     This action research aimed to develop classroom research potentials for five-year program pre-service teachers engaging in a professional internship at 8 local schools. Integrated learning experiences were provided under a supporting system of continuous supervision. The student teachers were guided through development of learning unit and innovation, learning management, learning assessment, and classroom research report. Process as well as outcome assessment of the student teacher potentials were conducted. The conclusions were as follows. With regards to the learning process, the student teachers were trained on the process of classroom action research from planning to reporting and presentation. Overall, the student teachers assessed their performance in classroom research at a high level, with the highest rating in data collection and research reporting. From the seminar and reflective account, the student teachers reported that they had gained worthwhile experiences in the practice of critical thinking skills, planning, problemsolving, and team working. More specifically, they appreciated the opportunity of applying knowledge into actual classroom situations. Moreover, as teacher-researcher in practice they achieved better understanding in learning unit development, learning management and classroom action research. As for the research outcome, the student teachers successfully developed 8 units of learning innovation in agricultural and environmental education. It was found that learning outcomes of the pupils were satisfactorily meeting the criteria on knowledge achievement, desirable characteristics, skills and skill process. Pupils reflected positively on the learning activities provided by the student teachers.