Welcome to the Camtree Digital Library
The Camtree Digital Library publishes peer-reviewed research reports produced by educators from around the world. Library content is freely available to all readers.
Camtree supports educators to reflect on their practice and conduct research to improve learning in their own contexts and organisations, through its website at https://www.camtree.org. Camtree is based at Hughes Hall, University of Cambridge.
Recent Submissions
Item Developing Scholarship and Research Skills: Interrogating the Literature on Subject Specialist Trainee Teachers’ Desirable Features(2024)Context: This study was conducted by the Secondary School Subjects Special Interest Group (SSS-SIG) at Nottingham Trent University. It focused on improving Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs for secondary subject teachers in England, with the aim of influencing both the university's own programs and regional/national policy. The inquiry addressed the need to better understand the key characteristics expected of secondary Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) trainees across various subject specialisms. Aims: The research sought to develop scholarship and research skills among early-career teacher educators and investigate the desirable traits of trainee teachers in secondary education. Key aims included understanding the balance between subject knowledge and pedagogical skills, identifying how these expectations vary across different subjects, and using this insight to inform course design and revalidation processes within ITE programs. Methods: A systematic literature review was employed, following a structured process of question development, literature search, data extraction, and thematic analysis. The research team analyzed studies related to secondary PGCE courses using academic databases and compiled the results into a thematic framework. Tools such as PRISMA diagrams and literature matrices were utilized to document and compare findings across subject areas. Findings: Seven key themes emerged, highlighting the importance of balancing subject knowledge and pedagogical skills, the challenges of designing generic teacher education programs, the effectiveness of subject knowledge enhancement courses, the development of practical teaching skills, and the role of reflection and mentorship. Additionally, the interplay between mentorship and school-based experiences was found to be crucial for trainee development, with different expectations observed across subjects. Implications: This study suggests that teacher education programs need to carefully balance subject- specific and pedagogical training. Other teacher educators might reflect on the importance of incorporating reflective practices, mentorship, and subject-specific approaches into PGCE courses. It also emphasizes the value of integrating theory with practice through enhanced school-based learning opportunities.Item The appropriacy of reading texts to develop reading skills(2023)Context: This study was conducted at the Ethiopian Police University Peacekeeping Language Centre, focusing on adult intermediate-level police officers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. These officers were being prepared for English-speaking UN peacekeeping missions. Aims: To improve the reading comprehension skills of the students by addressing the appropriacy of reading texts used in class, considering cultural relevance and vocabulary difficulty. Methods: The research utilized questionnaires, focus group discussions, and a reflective journal, involving 30 students. It aimed to understand students' perceptions of the reading texts, the difficulties they faced, and their suggestions for improvement. Findings: The study identified that the reading texts were culturally inappropriate for the students, making them difficult to engage with. Additionally, the vocabulary was too challenging, and the allocated time for reading practice was insufficient. Following adjustments to make the texts more culturally relevant and simplify vocabulary, students reported improved comprehension and engagement. Implications: The research underscores the importance of selecting culturally appropriate and linguistically accessible reading materials to enhance language learning. Materials should be adapted to the cultural context of students and there is a need to ensure vocabulary is comprehensible, facilitating better engagement and learning outcomes.Item Exploratory action research on handling a large class(2023)Context: This study focuses on the exploration of managing large classes at Jigjiga University, Ethiopia, specifically within the College of Dryland Agriculture, Department of Human Nutrition. It addresses the challenges faced in teaching undergraduate students aged 20 to 30 in oversized classes. Aims: The primary objective is to identify and implement effective strategies to enhance teaching and learning efficiency in large classes, aiming to improve student engagement and academic performance. Methods: Through exploratory action research, the study utilized focus group interviews with students, peer observations, and interviews with colleagues to assess the impact of large class sizes on teaching and learning experiences. Findings: Results indicated student dissatisfaction with large class environments, citing difficulties in active learning and teacher-student interaction. The study found that implementing a "think-pair-share" strategy, introducing peer feedback mechanisms, and utilizing team assignments improved student engagement and learning outcomes. Implications: The research highlights the effectiveness of learner-centered strategies in large classes, favouring the adoption of interactive and collaborative teaching methods to foster a more engaging and productive educational environment.Item Exploratory action research on students' reading difficulties(2023)Context: This study takes place in Elnojoom Intermediate School for Girls in Northern Kordofan State, Sudan, focusing on Grade 1 students. It addresses the issue of reading comprehension difficulties, particularly with new vocabulary. Aims: The aim is to identify the comprehension challenges faced by students, their perceptions of reading in class, and their views on the reading strategies employed. Methods: A mixed-method approach was used, including questionnaires distributed to 31 students and the use of a reflective journal by the teacher to record observations and actions during reading activities. Findings: Students showed willingness to read but struggled with using contextual clues, tapping into prior knowledge, and decoding new words. The strategies used in class were viewed positively, but there was a gap in students' ability to apply these strategies effectively to enhance comprehension. Implications: The study suggests the importance of teaching reading strategies that enable students to use context clues, activate prior knowledge, and engage with texts more effectively. Tailoring strategies to meet the specific needs of students can improve comprehension and foster a more engaging reading experience.Item Supporting teachers teach writing in challenging contexts(2023)Context: This research investigates teaching writing skills at secondary schools in Mali, targeting teachers and students aged 14 to 17. It explores the challenges of teaching writing in a remote environment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Aims: The study aims to improve the teaching of writing skills through WhatsApp mentoring, addressing teachers' lack of engagement and methodologies in writing instruction. Methods: A qualitative approach was utilized, involving focus groups and questionnaires. Teachers provided videos and photos of their writing instruction, with ten teachers from Koulikoro, Sikasso, and the district of Bamako participating. Findings: Teachers predominantly assigned essays and letters for homework but lacked specific approaches for teaching writing. The study introduced the product and process approaches to writing, alongside two writing activities, leading to enhanced teacher motivation and student engagement in writing tasks. Implications: The findings underscore the effectiveness of innovative approaches and technology in teaching writing skills. Introducing the product and process approaches, along with implementation of engaging activities, can improve writing instruction and student outcomes.
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