Navigating the path of service: Understanding the motivations, benefits, and challenges of EFL graduate teaching assistants

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, English Department, ZAH. C., Islamic Azad University, Zahedan, Iran.

2 Professor, Department of Foreign Languages, Faculty of Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran.

Abstract

This study investigates the motivations, benefits, and challenges of English as a foreign language (EFL) graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) at Islamic Azad University (IAU), where the GTA program is nascent. Employing a cross-sectional qualitative design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 GTAs from Zahedan and Kerman campuses and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings indicate that many GTAs are primarily driven by intrinsic motivations, such as a passion for teaching, alongside extrinsic factors like career advancement. Reported benefits include enhanced teaching skills, increased confidence, and valuable social connections. However, challenges included lesson preparation, classroom management, and student engagement. The insights highlight the need for comprehensive training programs addressing pedagogical skills and classroom dynamics. Additionally, mentorship systems and improved institutional policies are essential to support GTAs. These measures are critical for enhancing GTA effectiveness and improving education quality at IAU and similar institutions. This study contributes to understanding the multifaceted roles of GTAs within Iran’s academic landscape.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Linguistic Studies: Theory and Practice

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 26 September 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 17 May 2026
  • Revise Date: 25 July 2026
  • Accept Date: 26 September 2026

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