Pre-service teachers' perceptions in beginning education classes

Based on research concerning the influence and persistence of beliefs about teaching that pre-service teachers (students who are not yet teaching professionally) bring with them to their courses. This study used a survey and semi-structured interview to ascertain what students in a beginning education course felt were the qualities and determining characteristics of both good and poor teachers. Findings suggest that pre-service teachers conceive of teaching primarily as a task involving affective, interpersonal relationships rather than a profession requiring a skilled and knowledgeable practitioner. The findings of this study can be useful in the process of developing teacher education programs.