In this episode of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast, Shé and Anna interview Tabitha Kidwell, an esteemed teacher educator, about her research on the preparation and professional development of teacher trainers. The conversation explores various models and approaches for teacher training, the need for formalized support, and the essential skill sets for effective teacher training. The episode also emphasizes the importance of ongoing professional development and the role of professional learning communities in supporting teacher trainers.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone leading—or aspiring to lead—professional learning in ELT. Gain insight into how intentional mentorship, structured preparation, and reflective networks can transform teacher development for the better.

💡 Reflect with us:

• What skills or mindsets do new teacher trainers need most?

• How can institutions better prepare and mentor those who facilitate PD?

• What forms of teacher learning—beyond workshops—have most influenced your own practice?

Contribute to our 2026 Friends of the Podcast episode!🧰 Resources & Tools:

• I Shouldn’t Have to Fumble My Way Around: Supporting TESOL Teacher Educators Kidwell, T. (2021).
•  Train-the-Trainer Course by TESOL International Association
• The benefits of formal TESOL training

🎙 This episode is sponsored by Ellii: Use code THINKALOUD for 15% off your first membership term. Admins can also request a two-month free trial to pilot Ellii for your program.

📚 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

01:13 Welcome to the Teacher Think Aloud Podcast

01:26 Today's Topic: Training Teachers

02:43 Meet Tabitha Kidwell

03:35 Tabitha's Academic Pet Peeves

05:33 Discussing Tabitha's Study

08:21 Study Design and Methodology

10:43 Central Findings and Reflections

13:55 The Importance of Structured Support in TESOL

14:38 Essential Skills for Teacher Trainers

16:22 Formal Preparation and Induction Programs

20:58 Alternative Forms of Teacher Training

27:33 Institutional Support for Teacher Educators

31:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#TeacherTraining #TrainingOfTrainers #ELTPodcast #TESOL #TeacherEducators #ProfessionalDevelopment #ReflectivePractice #TeacherThinkAloud #TeacherGrowth #ELTcommunity #EdChat #TeacherPD #MentorshipInELT #TESOLTraining #GlobalEd #TeacherAgency #EFLteachers #ESLteachers