A Training program based on Gardner's Five Minds Model to Develop EFL Teachers' Teaching Performance Skills in light of 21st Century Skills

Abstract

The study aimed at developing EFL teachers’ teaching performance using Gardner’s Five Minds (FMs) model in a social constructivist and beyond constructivist framework. Four of Gardner’s FMs were implemented: the Disciplined Mind, the Synthesizing Mind, the Respectful Mind and the Ethical Mind (the last two minds were merged into one mind called the Values Mind). The participants were 22 EFL teachers enrolled in the Special Diploma Program, Faculty of Education, Ain Shams University. The study followed a mixed sequential explanatory research design of two phases i.e. quantitative data collection followed by a qualitative one. Quantitative data were collected through five instruments: an Achievement Test, Classroom Observation Checklist, a Portfolio Assessment Checklist, Structured interviews and a Program Satisfaction Questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected through analyzing the participants’ responses on the study quantitative data collection instruments as well as analyzing the responses of three in-service participants on Stimulated Recall Interviews. The findings showed that the participants’ overall teaching performance improved significantly as a result of the proposed training program with professional values on top of the competences that improved, followed by practical teaching skills and professional knowledge, respectively.