Preparing Future Educators: FCT COE Zuba Holds Teaching Practice Orientation.

The College of Education, FCT Zuba, has organized a Teaching Practice Orientation aimed at equipping student teachers with the skills, knowledge, and experience required for effective classroom engagement.

Speaking during the programme, the Director of Continuing Education, Mr. Laah Emmanuel, described the orientation as a critical step in preparing students for the transition from theoretical learning to practical teaching.

“It is for equipping students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience,” he said.

He noted that this year’s exercise has been strengthened with the involvement of the Quality Assurance Unit to guide students and ensure proper standards are maintained.

According to him, the college prepares student teachers through continuous training from admission up to the point of teaching practice.

“The school trains students from admission to the time they are sent out. That is the primary role of teaching practice,” he added.

Mr. Laah also highlighted some of the challenges faced by student teachers, noting that experiences often vary depending on their placement schools. He explained that factors such as inadequate teaching resources and distance from the college can affect students’ performance during teaching practice.

“Some of the challenges depend on the schools where students are posted,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of teacher education in national development.

“Teacher education remains the bedrock,” he stated.

Also speaking at the orientation, a resource person and guest speaker, Dr. Mrs. Comfort Akele, highlighted the qualities of a well-prepared student teacher, stressing the importance of composure and clarity in teaching delivery.

“An unprepared student teacher is often uncomposed and beats around the bush while teaching,” she said.

She advised students to develop essential teaching skills such as discussion and demonstration methods, noting that interactive teaching enhances understanding among learners.

“Demonstration is more interactive and very helpful while teaching,” she added.

On balancing theory with practical experience, she stressed the need for greater emphasis on practical teaching during training.

“There should be more practical and less theory,” she said.

She also pointed out that some student teachers fail to properly utilize instructional materials, describing them as essential tools for effective teaching. She urged students to remain disciplined and composed throughout their teaching practice.

Meanwhile, students expressed excitement and anticipation as they prepare for their teaching experience.

An NCE student, Idris Iyeh, described his feelings as overwhelming joy.

“I feel overwhelmed with joy,” he said.

He expressed enthusiasm about engaging with students in the classroom but noted concerns about building effective relationships with staff at his place of posting.

“One of my concerns is maintaining a good relationship with other teachers,” he said.

Despite this, he expressed confidence in his preparedness and highlighted the importance of mentorship during teaching practice.

“We need guidance and mentors. When we are corrected, we improve,” he added.

For him, teaching is more than a profession.

“It means a lot to me. I see teaching as a calling,” he said.

The orientation, which recorded active participation from both NCE and PGD students, reflected a shared commitment to academic growth and professional development.