Innovative and Traditional Elements in the Work of Academic Staff: The Views of Pre-service Teachers

The academic staff of the institutions of higher education plays a key role in the implementation of innovations in the study process. This article aims to analyze the views of students, pre-service teachers, on the role of innovations and traditions in the work of the academic staff at their institution of higher education. The survey data from 192 full-time and part-time first year students at Riga Teacher Training and Educational Management Academy show that readiness for innovative activity and active involvement in the creation, acquisition and implementation of innovations is an essential factor in the work of the academic staff. The results indicate that according to the views of pre-service teachers, in the context of pedagogy, the term ‘innovation’ refers to the process of renewal, educational reforms, selection of the most appropriate teaching material, and the elaboration, adoption and utilization of innovations in the pedagogical practice.