Dr Lavinia Tiko

“If we want stronger learning outcomes across the Pacific, teacher training must shift from lecture-heavy delivery to active modelling, co-teaching and hands-on mentorship.”

This is the key message from Fiji National University Associate Dean Learning and Teaching at the College of Humanities, Education and Law, Dr Lavinia Tiko, who is calling for a more practical approach to teacher education.

Dr Tiko said the latest Pacific Islands Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (PILNA) results highlight the need to address learning gaps by strengthening the way future teachers are prepared for the classroom.

She added that theory remains an important part of teacher education, but it must be supported by practical training that allows trainee teachers to observe good teaching, practise their skills and receive feedback.

“Right now, initial teacher education relies too heavily on theory. Theory explains the why, but trainee teachers desperately need to see the how. Theory and structured practice must go hand in hand,” she said.

Dr Tiko said trainee teachers should have more opportunities to see and practise effective approaches to literacy and numeracy, particularly in the early years. This includes areas such as phonics, guided reading and practical mathematics problem-solving.

“Trainees need supportive, practical spaces where they can practice, receive meaningful feedback and build their confidence before stepping into the classroom,” she added.

For Dr Tiko, strengthening teacher education is ultimately about giving future teachers the confidence and practical skills they need to make a difference in the classroom and improve learning outcomes for Pacific children.