On-the-job training: Pre-service teacher training in Trinidad and Tobago

Abstract

This monograph reports on a study that investigated the On-the-Job (OJT) Pre-Service Teacher Training Programme in Trinidad and Tobago in order to understand its origin, goals, programme design, curriculum, and organization. Data were gathered from in-depth interviews with personnel from the Ministry of Education, eight trainees, and three graduates of the programme; documentary analysis; and limited field observations. Although all indications are that the OJT Programme is making an impact on the preparedness of young, untrained teachers for the classroom, there are structural problems that have plagued the programme. These include: 1) the insufficiency of funds needed to implement the programme, 2) the lack of necessary staff, and 3) the lack of coordination among the various components of the programme and also with the teachers' colleges that receive OJT graduates