Who are They Really? A Review of the Characteristics of Pre-service ICT Teachers in Turkey

Abstract

This study examines how pre-service ICT teachers who are equipped with technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge, meet challenges in their teaching practices. This study aims to portray Turkish elementary ICT teachers' characteristics regarding their perceptions about teaching and their competencies. The data were collected by administering questionnaires to a total of 1,568 pre-service teachers. Moreover, 33 pre-service ICT teachers were interviewed, and 8 pre-service classroom observations were conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of the participants. Lesson plans were also analyzed during the data collection process. The results showed that the perceptions of the pre-service ICT teachers were generally positive about teaching. However, some negative points were also identified in their perceptions and competencies. The results of this study might shed light on who chooses ICT teaching as a profession, how ICT teachers are educated, and what career paths they follow.