An investigation of research knowledge and orientation of English language teachers attending an MA program

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether Current Issues in In-service Teacher education (INSET) course, one of the components of a Masters of Art (MA) program in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), helps participating teachers develop as teacher-researchers. Seventeen non-native English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers participated in the study. The study specifically aimed to examine a) if there are any differences in participants' research knowledge, practice, motivation for research, efficacy in research and reflectivity at the end of the INSET course, b) teachers' opinions about the contributions of the INSET course and other MA courses they have attended to their research knowledge and practice. Data came from questionnaires (i.e. Teachers' Research Knowledge Questionnaire (adapted from Borg, 2009), Motivation for and Efficacy in Research questionnaires which were originally developed for the purposes of this study) and other sources (i.e. Pre- and post-course research knowledge and practice essay and interview, motivation for research and efficacy in research interview, 10 weekly written tasks, reflective journals of the participants and researcher's post-facto notes). The findings of the study indicated that the participants' research knowledge was broadened as a result of the instruction and the hands-on experience they gained throughout the course. Moreover, their efficacy for research engagement increased significantly. Additionally, the instruction affected participants' dialogic reflection. However, no change in their critical reflection was observed. Finally, the participants felt that all MA courses as well as the INSET course contributed to their research knowledge. Nevertheless, they pointed out that the INSET course was the only course affecting their research practice due to the hands-on practice integrated into the course. These results revealed significant implications for teacher educators, EFL teachers, teacher education departments and MA programs.