Efl Pre-service Teachers’ Challenges In Teaching English To Young Learners During Kampus Mengajar Program In Rural Areas

Abstract

Although the studies discussing the challenges frequently faced by PSEFLTs in rural areas are many, the research about the challenges faced by PSEFLTs in Indonesia primary education context, especially under the Kampus Mengajar Program is still lacking. The main objective of this study is to describe the challenges faced by Pre- Service English as a Foreign Language Teachers (PSEFLTs) teaching primary-levelstudents during the Kampus Mengajar program that took place in schools with limited facilities in remote areas. This study used qualitative researchdesign, specifically descriptive qualitative. This study involved two PSEFLTs froma private Islamic University in Yogyakarta participating in the Kampus Mengajar program for one semester. The participants were, therefore, selected via purposive sampling technique. To gather the data from the research participants, thisstudy employsinterviews asthe primary data collection technique, complemented by documents as the secondary means. This research has two main findings. First, four challenges were identified, categorized into two major themes: pre-service pedagogical competencies and the development of learning materials and media. Second, the emergent findings reveal two additional challenges, grouped under one major theme of institutional related challenges. One important consideration for universities is the provision of space or additional training for Pre- service teachers, especially those who wish to join the Teaching Campus. Given that most schools in rural areas have limited facilities, Pre-service teachers must receive special training to be able to engage effectively in this program