Assessment of Practice Teaching in Rural and Suburban Communities

Abstract

The objective of this study is to portray the advantages and disadvantages of practice teaching in rural and suburban communities, based on the experience of several graduates of the University of Antioquia who have bachelor’s degrees in primary education, with a major in natural sciences and environmental education. Their practice teaching was done in the town of Sonsón (Colombia). This is a qualitative research project, based on a case study. The focus group method was used to collect the data. The results show this is a meaningful experience for the student teachers, given the guidance of those involved in the process and the opportunity to acquire training in research. However, the topographic situation and the organizational aspects of the experience are factors that do not favor its development. The conclusion is that practice teaching in the program needs to be considered in a new light and redefined to make it more relevant, coherent and linked to the needs of the rural and suburban context.