Perception of Ideal Teachers' Figure among Ethiopian Immigrant Pre-Service Teachers

Abstract

This study aims to display the ideal teachers' figure as it is perceived by Ethiopian immigrant pre-service teachers [hereafter – "students"]. The study was conducted in an interpretive-qualitative approach. The sample population comprised 44 students who studied in a unique teacher education programme. The programme is based on a multicultural concept which encompasses pluralistic and particularistic principles. It is designed for an immigrant minority population that experience social difficulties. The research tools consisted of an open-ended questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The findings illustrate that the students have similar perceptions of the ideal teachers' figure, some of which are associated with their cultural identity. The expansion of knowledge and comprehension of findings of this study can have an impact on the building of unique programmes which respond to real needs of learner populations from different cultures. From a future aspect, it can prepare students from various sectors for a high multicultural awareness which facilitates inculcation of equality, justice and democracy values to the pupils.