Using mobile technology to develop the pre-service teacher practicum

Abstract

There is a perceived “disconnect” between university theory and the reality of the classroom which has led to criticism of the efficacy of pre-service teacher preparation. Additionally, it is now acknowledged that the practicum experience for pre-service teachers is not fully preparing them for the demands of a 21st century education system. In this paper, the authors revisit the practicum experience and propose that mobile technology, with its ability to provide instant communication and immediate access to resources, could minimise the “disconnect” between theory and the classroom and improve the pre-service teacher practicum experience for all parties involved.