Essential Knowledge for English Student Teachers: Core Competencies and Pedagogical Skills Needed for Effective Classroom Teaching

This study aimed to identify the essential knowledge and teaching competencies English student teachers should possess before beginning their in-school teaching practice. The study involved 24 English student teachers from the College of Teacher Education at Phranakhon Rajabhat University. All participants were in their 4th year of study and were actively engaged in their practicum during the academic year 2024. The data was collected using a Google form survey, designed based on the suggestions of three education specialists. The results of the Google form questionnaire were interpreted, categorized and tabulated on computer sheets and were calculated into the statistical values, Mean. The findings revealed that the participants demonstrated the highest confidence in integrating technology into English teaching, with a mean score of 4.34, reflecting their preparedness to utilize digital tools to enhance instruction. Confidence in pronunciation and phonetics (mean 4.27) and classroom management techniques (mean 4.20) also ranked highly, indicating their readiness to model accurate language and maintain an effective learning environment. Moreover, the highest-rated competencies include Classroom Management and Technology Integration (mean 4.37), highlighting confidence in managing classroom environments and integrating digital tools to support learning.