Correlations between medium of instruction and interaction factors among teacher trainees: A case study of the University of Arusha- Musoma Centre, Tanzania

Abstract

This study sought to establish correlations between interaction factors and medium of instruction among teacher trainees at the University of Arusha, Tanzania. Using a Case Study Approach, 88 teacher trainees participated by filling the questionnaire. T-test and Pearson co-relational coefficient measured differences and relationships among variables in question. The reliability test yielded cronbach alpha of above 0.79 for classroom interaction, group interaction and medium of instruction. The study concluded that educators employed problem solving strategies that encouraged participation in learning. Language competence increased the level of interaction but media of instruction (English or Kiswahili) did not bring any difference in the level of classroom or group interaction. Therefore, it is recommended that Language teachers should play good role to improve learners’ mastery of the medium of instruction in order to enhance the interaction level during teaching-learning sessions.

Keywords: Medium, instruction, interaction, teacher trainees, Arusha, Musoma, Tanzania