180 likes | 498 Views
Teaching as a Profession. Why do the authors include a story about Southwest Airlines in this chapter?. Provides essential services Unique body of knowledge Decisions made on the basis of body of knowledge (theory/concepts) Public trust Individual freedom and autonomy.
E N D
Why do the authors include a story about Southwest Airlines in this chapter?
Provides essential services Unique body of knowledge Decisions made on the basis of body of knowledge (theory/concepts) Public trust Individual freedom and autonomy Professional organizations control work and conditions Performance standards for admission determined by profession Induction requires preparation Accountable to profession, not supervisor What is a Profession?
Why is teaching not (completely) a profession? • History • Gender • Multiple routes • Public Perception
History • Until after the Civil War, you only went to college to become: • A lawyer • A minister • A doctor
History • Normal Schools • Reverend Samuel Hall established the first normal school in Vermont in 1823. • Horace Mann helps establish a state supported normal school in Massachusetts in 1839. • Not really college; two years of training • As public schools grew, so did the importance and prestige of normal schools.
History • The 1980’s – Today • Increased emphasis on rigorous teacher training • A Nation Prepared called for M.A. to be minimum degree required of teachers. • Board-Certified Teachers • (NBPTS) • Advanced designation for master teachers; rigorous requirements
Gender • As normal schools develop, teaching becomes increasingly feminized. • Why? • “Woman’s Work”. Deals with caring for children. • Not intellectually serious • One of the few professional avenues open • Not rewarded with status and pay. • Contemporary Gender Issues?
Multiple Routes • Traditional Routes • Alternative Licensure • Teach for America
Public Perception • Teaching is easy • Teachers only work nine months out of the year • Anyone could be a teacher • A good fall back job
Why does professional status matter? • Pay • Status • Autonomy