Initial Teacher Training of Novice Faculty in the Spanish Higher Education System

Abstract

Educational reforms in European Higher Education have brought about substantial changes in educational policy, being necessary to address the initial training of university teachers. This study aims to analyse the training proposals for teacher induction of novice faculty in Spanish universities. The research followed an exploratory–descriptive methodology. Most Spanish universities offer ongoing teacher training for teaching and research staff, yet only about half offer specific induction training for novice faculty. This finding indicates a potential area for improvement in the initial support provided to novice faculty. The results reveal a weak structuring and systematisation of initial teacher training, notable discrepancies in training characteristics and an apparent gap in programme assessment. The induction strategy should be contextualised by matching the opportunities offered by the institution with the personal demands of the novices. Also, it should be based on a previous diagnosis and set of minimum criteria for designing induction to guarantee equal professional preparation. Practical implications on several levels are summarised in this study.