Addressing interpersonal challenges: strategies used by trainee teachers in practicum

Trainee teachers frequently encounter significant interpersonal challenges during their practicum, including building rapport with students, managing classroom behavior, and other related issues. These challenges can affect their confidence and effectiveness in real teaching settings. This study investigates the interpersonal challenges faced by trainee teachers and identifies strategies they use to overcome them. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from trainee teachers at the Faculty of Education, UiTM Puncak Alam, through open-ended surveys and questionnaires. The findings indicate that trainee teachers commonly struggle with areas such as teaching skills, classroom management, and lesson preparation. To address these challenges, they employ strategies including two-way communication, active learning, reflective practice, and feedback from students and mentors. Based on these results, the study offers recommendations for teacher training institutions, mentors, and policymakers to enhance the practicum experience. Suggestions include conducting longitudinal studies to monitor trainee teachers’ development over time, thereby increasing the research’s relevance and practical application in improving teacher training and professional development. Overall, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to strengthen teacher education programs and better prepare future educators for real-world classroom environments.