University teacher training in the EHEA: a study at the University of Burgos

Changes in the educative paradigm, arising from the transitional process towards the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), call for a new teaching model and a new role for university teaching staff. In this context, institutionalized and systematic teacher education is considered fundamental to face up to new educational challenges with success. Over the last decade, the majority of Spanish universities have sought to carry out teacher education experiences in line with international practice. This article assumes an approach to the study of the application in the classroom of the teacher training at the University of Burgos (Spain), to analyze the perception of teachers and students about this training. A two-stage mixed methodology was used: in the first, the training content related to the "European Higher Education Area" and the "Renewal of teaching methodologies" completed by 606 teachers over the period 2000-2011 was described and analyzed; and, in the second, a qualitative study was conducted with 4 teachers (in-depth interview) and 30 students (focus-group). It was concluded that teacher education is highly valued by teaching staff and a keen interest in the improvements. Likewise, students acknowledged good teaching practice delivered by well trained teachers. Important coincidences are found with regard to what teachers and students identify as positive teaching practice.