شهرام افراز

This study aimed to develop and validate a model of reflective skills for Iranian EFL teachers to help them acquire reflective skills. Accordingly, an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design was used in two phases. In the qualitative phase, 50 EFL teachers were recruited based on available sampling method from different private language institutes of Fars Province, Iran to participate in semi-structured interviews. The interview data were analyzed following open, axial, and selective coding procedures and the results were used to develop a reflective skills questionnaire. The quantitative phase involved 300 EFL teachers who were selected through available sampling to complete the researcher-made questionnaire. The process of quantitative data analysis was conducted through Cronbach’s Alpha test, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). According to the results, a model of reflective skills for Iranian EFL teachers was designed consisting of three main components including social skills, pedagogical skills, and transformative skills, with twelve sub-components. The findings offer some implications for policymakers, teacher trainers, and other stakeholders in charge of training and recruiting EFL teachers.

The current inquiry aimed at examining the effect of first language by Iranian learners as Foreign Language (EFL) in task preparation on their speaking accuracy, fluency and complexity. For this purpose, 40 Iranian EFL learners with intermediate level were selected based on a placement test, and divided into two equal groups. Then, the speaking fluency, accuracy, and complexity test was administered as the pretest. The treatment lasted for five sessions of 60 minutes. In these sessions, the learners did oral opinion tasks. In the first group, participants were supposed to spend 10 minutes to cooperate with a partner to read a proposed problem, discuss their solutions, and jot down by in a planning sheet. Within 10 minutes, they prepared for the task using only their L1 (Persian) for improving both speaking and writing skills. Following that, the participants were separated in various rooms, and were given two minutes to plan the task in English prior to doing the task. In contrast, the second group completed the planning sheet and prepared the task in English as their second/foreign language. The instruction lasted five sessions. At the final session, the speaking fluency, accuracy, and complexity posttest was conducted. The effects of the task planning conditions were analyzed and compared during and after the task performance. The data were analyzed via ANCOVA. The findings indicated that using L1 by Iranian EFL learners in task preparation significantly affected speaking accuracy, fluency and complexity. Finally, the pedagogical and theoretical implications of the study are provided.

This study explores the detailed experiences and coping mechanisms of Iranian English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers about teacher immunity in the Iranian educational setting. A total of thirty experienced instructors of English as a Foreign Language (EFL), with an average age of 32 and an average teaching experience of nine years, were selectively chosen to take part in comprehensive interviews conducted in the Persian language. The study utilized the grounded theory technique, where interviews were transcribed and systematically analyzed using MAXQDA. The results highlight the crucial significance of a conducive work atmosphere, opportunities for professional growth, and efficient communication in enhancing teacher resilience and immunity. Peer support, strong administrative support, and favorable school rules play a vital role in cultivating a culture of mutual assistance that is essential for teacher resilience. Professional development programs improve educators' ability to adapt and increase their job happiness. The autonomy to make decisions also strengthens their resilience. Additionally, it is crucial to prioritize a good equilibrium between work and personal life, even if it might be difficult due to the blurring lines between these two domains. Mindfulness techniques and seeking social support are crucial coping methods that effectively reduce stress and burnout among teachers. This study examines how individual traits, environmental factors, and coping techniques influence teacher immunity in the Iranian EFL teaching context. The acquired insights provide useful assistance for creating interventions that aim to improve the well-being and productivity of teachers and, ultimately, the quality of education.