Teacher Educators in the Twenty-first Century

This book links theory, policy and practice in a critical examination of the relationship between the professional identity, knowledge, learning needs and research experience of teacher educators. The book concludes by drawing these themes together as a means to support the induction and further professional development of teacher educators. Teacher educators have, until relatively recently, been invisible in the eyes of policy makers with little attention given to their induction and professional learning needs. This book draws on a growing body of research on this diverse profession within a context where, in many countries, the school practicum plays an increasing role in the training and education of teachers. The recent policy gaze of the European Commission has added further momentum to the attention being given to teacher education, its educators and the role they play in pupil achievement. However for many beginning teacher educators little support is offered at the start of their new career trajectories in schools, colleges or universities. This book examines some of the issues surrounding these career transitions and the implications they have for professional learning. It serves as an invaluable yet accessible source of knowledge for all those interested in the professional learning needs and recognition of this heterogeneous occupation.

Gerry Czerniawski taught humanities, business studies and sociology in schools and colleges in London before gradually moving into teaching in higher education within the political sciences and education at The Open University, the University of Northampton, London Metropolitan University and London University's Institute of Education. In 2006 he joined the University of East London where he is currently Professor of Education. He has been programme leader for secondary PGCE / GTP / Schools Direct humanities courses and runs the doctoral programmes in education. Gerry holds a National Teaching Fellowship from the Higher Education Academy and is a trustee and council member of the British Educational Research Association (BERA). He is the Lead Editor of The BERA Blog, Chair of the British Curriculum Forum and a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Chapter 1: Introduction - beware the sorcerer's apprentice! Chapter 2: Teacher Educators' identities Chapter 3: Continuing professional development or professional learning? Chapter 4: The teacher educator researcher Chapter 5: Doing teacher education differently - international initiatives Chapter 6: Rethinking teacher educators' knowledge Chapter 7: Conclusion - moving on...one step at a time! Index