The Professional Teacher The Preparation and Nurturance of the Reflective Practitioner

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.

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.