Exploring the Difficulties Faced by Students in Practicing ELT at Schools

Abstract

This study has been carried out at Alfarahidi University, Baghdad (Iraq) in an attempt to find out the leading problems in teaching English in Iraqi schools from the perspectives of the students who practice teaching English as part of their graduation requirements in the College of Education – English Department. The study used a qualitative method to investigate the teaching and learning challenges faced by the participants as teachers. An in-depth interview was used as an instrument to collect data of this study. The study has shown that there are many reasons beyond the flaws in English learning and teaching. For example; lack of learners' interest in English, limited facilities for learning, short period of teaching practice, and the school administration’s lack of interest in allowing the college students to practice their tasks as teachers. The study recommended that colleges should allow students to practice teaching frequently, for example, by frequently letting them visit schools throughout the year. The school administrations must cooperate and be responsible for the students who practice teaching.