Teaching and teacher education : some observations, reflections and possible solutions

Stephen Dinham

Abstract

This paper explores two related issues: the standing of teachers and teaching in society, and teacher pre-service and postgraduate education. Teacher education is inextricably linked to teaching, as each provides raw recruits to the other, states the author. The problems and the pressures of teaching are linked to the problems and pressures of teacher education in a mutually reinforcing fashion. The context of continual change, rising expectations and increased criticism of education has eroded teacher and teacher education confidence and satisfaction and created a defensive mentality. Educators need to promote education and play their part in educational, social and political debate as well as recognising the present shortcomings and possible solutions.