Challenges Faced by Novice EFL Teachers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the adaptation challenges of novice EFL teachers during the induction period in Iraqi Kurdistan. Through a questionnaire prepared in a cross-sectional descriptive design, the data were collected from 20 novices EFL teachers teaching in four provinces of the Kurdistan region. The outcomes of the study presented that novice EFL teachers had both job-related and social challenges. The most frequent adaptation challenges were related to (1) relationship with students, (2) social status and identity, (3) supervisors (school principals and inspectors), and (4) classroom management. The data are analyzed with SPSS 16.0, the findings are discussed and the appropriate recommendations are given.