Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions of English instructors on their professional identities, within private higher education institutions. The aim of the current study is to explore the perceptions of teachers' professional identities and the aspects that affect it, as well as, their perceptions of communities of practice and its effect on their professional identity. The study is conducted on 26 English instructors, who teach Academic English in private institutions. A qualitative approach is utilized and individual interviews, and focus group interviews were conducted with all the participants. Findings show that there are four main aspects that shape and affect a teacher's professional identity, such as teacher role, appreciation and connection, competence and self-efficacy, and future trajectories. These aspects seem to highly affect the instructors' professional identity in a positive way. Moreover, the teachers are aware of the significance of self-reflection and professional improvement. Furthermore, there is an indication that membership in communities of practice is a crucial action in order to improve teachers' teaching skills, share common experiences and enhance social learning (Wenger, 1998). In addition, participants believe that it is a method for developing their performance to enhance their students' academic learning. Data also shows that it has a positive effect on teachers' professional identities. The study suggests some practical implications that could assist teacher educators, and if applied in teacher education programs and trainings could help in supporting and developing their professional identities.

Department

Applied Linguistics Department

Degree Name

MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Graduation Date

2-1-2020

Submission Date

January 2020

First Advisor

Gebril, Atta

Committee Member 1

AlSabbagh, Rania

Committee Member 2

Sarhan, Nihal

Extent

124 p.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Rights

The author retains all rights with regard to copyright. The author certifies that written permission from the owner(s) of third-party copyrighted matter included in the thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study has been obtained. The author further certifies that IRB approval has been obtained for this thesis, or that IRB approval is not necessary for this thesis. Insofar as this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study is an educational record as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g), the author has granted consent to disclosure of it to anyone who requests a copy.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Approval has been obtained for this item

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