Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) of Physical Education Student-Interns’ Experiences: Challenges and the Role of Mentors

The study explored lived experiences of physical education (PE) student interns' experiences, challenges and the role of mentors during internship. The participants were 12 PE students and nine mentors who completed four months (one semester) internship in Ghana. These participants were purposively sampled and interviewed using semi-structured interview guide. The conversations were audio-taped, transcribed, member checked and peer reviewed. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The findings showed revealed: (1) most student interns did not get the chance to observe their mentors within the first three mandatory weeks, (2) student interns' lesson plans were not regularly vetted, (3) mentors seldom gave student interns constructive feedback, (4) logistic challenges, (5) institutional challenges, (6) technical challenges, (7) psychological challenges, (8) most student interns needed further mentoring in career development. It is recommended that teacher education institutions give mentors regular training and orientation to better equip them for effective mentoring of PE student interns.