Needs Analysis of Teacher Candidates for TOEIC Preparation Short-Course Instruction at Buriram Rajabhat University

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to analyze the needs of teacher candidates for Test of English for International Communication or TOEIC preparation short-course instruction at Buriram Rajabhat University Language Center (BRULC). The sample group included 32 eligible teacher candidates under an initiative recruited teachers to work in their hometowns in 2017. The samples were also BRU alumni from 10 programs of Faculty of Education: Thai, English, Early Childhood Education, Social Studies, Math, Physics, General Sciences, Physical Education, Music and Thai Dramatic Arts. They were selected by using a purposive sampling method. The research instruments were composed of a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. Statistics utilized in data analysis were percentage, mean, Standard Deviation, and content analysis. The results showed that most of the samples were females (71.9%) and most of them were from Social Studies program (18.8%). The samples opined that they needed the instruction in terms of instructional materials at the highest level (4.79), followed by teachers (4.60), and content of the course (4.55), respectively. In terms of instructional materials, most of the samples viewed that they needed exercises and practice tests the most. Regarding the teachers aspect, most of them needed the teachers who experienced taking the TOEIC before and the teachers must be able to teach strategies to take the TOEIC in each part. Concerning the content of the course, most of the samples viewed that they needed strategies as well as techniques in taking the TOEIC. It was suggested that the vocabulary, strategies and techniques in taking the TOEIC including tips for time management must be focused on and mainly taught in the course. In addition, the TOEIC preparation course must be organized by the BRULC continuously for the benefits of the test takers who needed the TOEIC score.