experiences provided by extra-curricular activities, in particular learning
through the arts, and to examine the potential spill-over effect of these
creative learning experiences on the teaching and learning process within
the classroom.
It is expected that teacher educators at the University of the South Pacific
ought to be well versed with policy directives relating to teacher development,
standards and curriculum in the university member countries. It appears
remiss that some appear to be ill-informed about changes in curriculum
directions at the national level in Fiji. The lack of teacher educators’ awareness
of policy directives in Fiji poses a concern as these educators play a key role in
preparing teachers for the world of the classroom. This finding suggests a lack
of consultation and dialogue between teacher educators and the Ministry of
Education. This will need to be addressed if teacher education and training
are to be improved.
In summation, this study provides insight into the context and reality of
the teaching experience in Fiji. It also raises a number of issues that warrant
further research and dialogue. Areas requiring particular attention include
policy awareness and implementation; research into pedagogical practices;
wide stakeholder consultation; teacher preparedness, including teacher
training and education, the professional development of teachers, and
teacher workloads and incentives; the pressure of curriculum content; and
current assessment approaches.
References
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Encyclopaedia of Applied Linguistics. Blackwell Publishing Ltd. http://web.edu.hku.hk/f/
acadstaff/412/Carless_2013_innovation.pdf (Accessed 19 February 2015.)
Chu, C., Abella, I.S. and Paurini, S. 2013. Educational Practices that Benefit Pacific Learners in
Tertiary Education. Ako Aotearoa National Project Fund. http://www.akoaotearoa.ac.nz/pasifika-
learners-success (Accessed 19 February 2015.)
Coxon, E. 2000. The preparation and development of quality teachers. Government
of Fiji, Learning Together: Directions for Education in the Fiji Islands. Fiji Islands Education
Commission Report, Suva, Ministry of Education, pp.389–424.
Fiji Bureau of Statistics. 2012. Key Statistics: June 2012, Population. http://www.statsfiji.gov.fj/
(Accessed 19 January 2015.)