Synopses & Reviews
From the AgAnda for Education in a Democracy Series
Sponsored by the National Network for Educational Renewal
"This book is comprehensive in its account of what goes into the substance and process of preparing the professional educator, from selection to induction into teaching. The story that unfolds in the collaboration of the University of Connecticut and several schools is one of redesigning virtually every component into something quite different from what existed before without stopping the traffic of future teachers from crossing the bridge to practice."
--from the Foreword by John I. Goodlad, codirector, Center for Educational Renewal, University of Washington, and president, Institute for Educational Inquiry
This practical volume redefines teaching as a profession with pronounced service and moral dimensions. The Professional Teacher shows how this new paradigm can be instilled in teacher education programs and in teaching practice. The authors argue that the practice of teaching requires much more than knowledge and technical competence. It calls for reflection and inquiry, a dedication to democratic principles, and a strong commitment to educational renewal and change. The authors reveal how teacher education can be structured to emphasize the moral and service responsibilities of the profession--especially by forging close ties with local schools and communities--to produce caring and effective teachers. Richly illustrated with research and real-life examples of good practice, The Professional Teacher proposes a new standard that focuses on preparing teachers for a climate of school renewal and change.
Review
"This is a well-researched and lively treatment of a new standard for preparation and induction into teaching. It also encourages the assumption of leadership roles for teachers in the educational renewal and change dedicated to democratic principles and service within a complex whole community." (Patterns, published by ASCD)
"This book is comprehensive in its account of what goes into the substance and process of preparing the professional educator, from selection to induction into teaching. The story that unfolds in the collaboration of the University of Connecticut and several schools is one of redesigning virtually every component into something quite different from what existed before without stopping the traffic of future teachers from crossing the bridge to practice." (from the Foreword by John I. Goodlad, codirector, Center for Educational Renewal, University of Washington, and president, Institute for Educational Inquiry)
"If you are looking for a stimulating treatment of how to improve schools and programs for preparing future teachers, this book is a must read. The authors know what they are talking about; their ten years of collaboration in the Hartford public schools ensures that. As you read, you will discover a bonus: an interesting, well-written, helpful treatment of the moral dimensions of teaching." (Steven C. Baugh, superintendent, Alpine School District, Utah)
"This book tells a compelling story about learning and teaching in today's complex and diverse classrooms.... Teacher educators will find this an important contribution to their work, generally, and to their thinking, specifically, about teaching as a profoundly moral and ethical act." (Jill Mattuck Tarule, dean, College of Education and Social Services, University of Vermont)
Synopsis
Teaching is a service profession with pronounced moral dimensions. To prepare and nurture competent, inquiring, and caring professionals, a teacher education program must emphasize these moral dimensions along with strong connections to schools and surrounding communities. Real-life examples of exemplary teachers support this convincing argument for the creation of a very different tradition of teaching.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 167-194) and index.
About the Author
KAY A. NORLANDER-CASE is associate professor of special education in the School of Education at the University of Connecticut. TIMOTHY G. REAGAN is professor in the Language, Literacy and Society program in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Connecticut. CHARLES W. CASE is professor of educational leadership and former dean of the School of Education at the University of Connecticut.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Earning the Right to Teach.
1. Teaching as a Profession in a Democracy: Creating a New Picture.
2. Cultivating Reflective Practice and Inquiry.
3. Becoming a Teacher: The Moral Dimensions.
4. Creating Educative Communities.
5. The Teacher's Responsibility to Diverse Learners.
6. Enabling Teachers to Assume Leadership Roles.