From Theory To Practice: Fifth-Semester Stai Mempawah Students Teaching English At SDN 04 Mempawah Timur

Abstract

This study examines the impact of practical teaching experience on the teaching skills and confidence of fifth-semester students at Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam (STAI) Mempawah, who taught English at Sekolah Dasar Negeri (SDN) 04 Mempawah Timur. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research explores how hands-on classroom experience enhances pre-service teachers' professional growth. The findings indicate that student teachers experienced a significant increase in confidence, improved lesson planning skills, and a deeper understanding of the realities of teaching English to young learners. Practical teaching opportunities allowed them to apply theoretical knowledge, refine classroom management techniques, and develop engaging instructional strategies.

 However, challenges such as initial anxiety and the need for further pedagogical refinement were noted. The study highlights the importance of integrating real-world teaching practice into teacher education programs to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Future research should explore long-term effects on teacher development and the impact of different instructional contexts on pre-service teacher preparation.