Policy for promoting teacher educators' research engagement in Myanmar. (May 2022) - Kyaw, May Thu
Abstract: This qualitative case study investigates the policy context for teacher educators' research engagement during Myanmar's reform to develop education colleges into higher education institutions. The data were obtained from document analysis and semi-structured interviews with teacher education authorities. The study found that, despite pitfalls, teacher educators' research engagement has been promoted through policy encouragement. It suggests that, among teacher educators, research engagement requires a supportive policy context through sustained encouragement to achieve realistic goals. However, such policies may be problematic if research engagement is pursued for competition or promotion rather than professional growth. Highlights: Reforms in teacher education have been prioritized in Myanmar. Teacher educators' research engagement is a means of improving student outcomes. Teacher educators in Myanmar are expected to be self-regulated researchers. Inconsistencies are found between intended and implemented policies in Myanmar.