VietTESOL International Convention 2025

This study aims to develop and validate a scale to measure the work readiness of pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in Vietnam, addressing the need for a contextually relevant tool to assess their preparedness for professional environments. The scale was developed through a qualitative synthesis of data from: (i) relevant literature; and (ii) in-depth interviews with nine potential employers (i.e., school principals, program manager, language center managers) to understand the qualities and skills expected of pre-service EFL teachers in Vietnamese context. To validate the scale, a questionnaire was distributed to 245 pre-service EFL teachers from three teacher training institutions in northern Vietnam. Data analysis using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed a final scale consisting of 48 items measuring four dimensions: personal characteristics, knowledge of the organization, teaching competence, and interpersonal capabilities. The validated scale holds significant implications for teacher training institutions and pre-service teachers, providing a framework to evaluate and enhance readiness for the workplace. Additionally, it informs the development of targeted training programs that align with employer expectations in the Vietnamese educational context.