CHALLENGES THAT GIVE MEANING TO ASSOCIATE TEACHERS’ MENTORSHIP OF PRACTICUM STUDENTS
In this article, associate teachers’ professional experiences are studied through the concepts of trial and experience. The adoption of these concepts allows for a novel view of the professional career paths of associate teachers working with students completing fieldwork in professional teacher training. The study was conducted through doctoral research in which biographical interviews and structural analysis approach were mobilised. Results show three main events that make up challenge trials that are shared among associate teachers. These results demonstrate the influence of these events in the adoption of this professional role. Moreover, support received during their integration process in their profession as well as the associated studies implemented from the university play an important role in associate teacher’s roles whereas that is not the case in teacher’s roles in general.