EXPERIENCE OR TRAINING: WHICH MATTERS MORE IN TEACHING THE LITERATURE COMPONENT?

Abstract

Realising the benefits of teaching and learning Literature, the Ministry of Education has integrated it into the English language syllabus. Literature teachers play the pivotal role in the learning process. To better their teaching, they need to be equipped with necessary training and for those who are experienced, it will be an advantage. This study involved 320 English teachers in the state of Sarawak, meant to determine the influence of teacher training and experience in teaching Literature. It employed a questionnaire as the instrument and data was analysed using statistical software. The results revealed there was a significant difference in Literature teaching between those receiving training and those who did not. No significant difference was found between the three groups of teaching experience towards their pedagogical skills, proposed activities in the lesson as well as their attitudes towards Literature. This asserts that irrespective of teaching experience, Literature teachers need to arm themselves with proper training which may assist in better student engagement of the lessons. With appropriate training, teachers may benefit and utilise the knowledge gained to create more enjoyable Literature activities with effective pedagogical skills and exude positive vibes in the teaching and learning process.