Theory Meets Practice: Preparing Future Educators
A key milestone in training future specialists at the Uzbek Language Education Faculty is pedagogical practice. The theoretical knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired within the university classrooms are put to the test and further developed through hands-on experience in general education institutions. This crucial phase of training is designed to prepare students for the professional demands of teaching, equipping them with pedagogical and psychological readiness, fostering creative thinking, and enhancing their professional skills and capabilities.
On February 20, 2023, the faculty held a conference to kick off a 15-week pedagogical internship for 4th-year students. The event provided a comprehensive overview of the objectives, expectations, and requirements of the upcoming practice.
The conference opened with a presentation by the Faculty Dean, Professor S. Muhamedova, who outlined the core goals of pedagogical practice. She emphasized that this practical experience is essential for developing professional confidence and instilling stable pedagogical values in future teachers. During the session, students were briefed on the practice’s aims, the challenges they might encounter, and the documentation required upon completion. A detailed Q&A session addressed numerous concerns, ensuring clarity for all participants.
Professor G. Asilova, Head of the Department, further elaborated on the key responsibilities of the students during their internships. The focus was on reinforcing students’ theoretical and practical knowledge in pedagogical and psychological disciplines, as well as specialized subjects. The aim is to equip future educators with hands-on skills, enabling them to apply psychological-pedagogical principles in real-world situations. Students will also be introduced to the current state of educational practices in schools and lyceums, acquainting them with innovative pedagogical methods. The emphasis is on nurturing essential professional and personal qualities in educators, fostering a deep respect and passion for the teaching profession.
The conference also featured an insightful presentation by Associate Professor Sh. Isayeva, who addressed the logistics of the pedagogical practice. She covered essential topics such as the structure of internship documentation, guidelines for conducting the practice, and strategies for effective classroom management. Students were advised on how to familiarize themselves with their assigned schools, understand the roles of school leaders, and navigate the expectations of the internship. Additionally, she detailed the criteria for evaluating students’ performance, the procedures for completing the internship, and the reporting requirements.
Overall, this conference served as a vital preparation for students, setting the stage for them to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings, thereby bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world teaching.