Abstract:

In 2019, Japan introduced the 'GIGA (Global and Innovation Gateway for All) School Concept,' a government initiative aimed at providing each compulsory education student with a personal computer device and enabling cloud-based learning through high-speed networks. This initiative encourages students to directly access learning resources, promoting individualised and collaborative learning to address diverse needs in school education (Central Council for Education, 2021). To achieve this vision, teacher training programs must provide undergraduate students in English teacher training courses with experiences that enable them to adapt to evolving learning environments. If teacher training relies heavily on conventional lecture-based approaches, aspiring English teachers may not gain sufficient exposure to the principles of the GIGA School Concept. It is crucial that students engage in formats resembling those encountered during practical teaching. In response to these demands, the authors developed a new subject on theories and methods of education utilising ICT, initiated in 2020, to prepare Japanese undergraduate students of English teacher trainees for their teaching practice rounds and beyond. This course integrates practical elements, emphasising proficiency in handling diverse devices and creating digital teaching materials. It combines theory and practice with tasks such as utilising Learning Management Systems (LMS) in lesson plans, understanding Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), employing online English tests, designing tasks with mobile apps, and conducting language instruction activities through online video-conference links. This study evaluates evidence of learning through student outputs, including end-of-semester surveys and focus group interviews conducted during the academic years 2021-2023, and discusses potential future directions. Preliminary findings suggest that teacher trainees believe they have enhanced the knowledge and skills necessary for integrating ICT into their English teaching practices in school settings.

Keywords:

Pre-service teacher training, ICT skill development for teacher trainees, teacher training course development, English teacher preparation, GIGA school concept.