Today, the profession of teaching is undergoing dramatic changes. New technology is changing teaching and learning, and this trend should be reflected in the teacher preparation programs. In addition to teaching and learning, teacher education should also include related academic disciplines, such as neuroscience, history, philosophy, anthropology, and sociology. All of these disciplines impact the way people learn, how teachers teach, and the quality of education. If these subjects are taught in teacher education programs, it will ensure that teachers are better prepared to teach children of various ages.
Teaching as a profession is in flux
One of the most significant changes in the current educational system involves the way that teachers make up their selves. The notion that the professional self is separate from the personal self has been dismantled, as teachers are increasingly expected to balance their commitments to their families, friends, and community. The implementation of COVID-19 has disrupted this landscape, and teachers are finding themselves in a precarious position as they try to negotiate their identities and balance the needs of their students.
In this context, teachers must reconsider the way they construct their identities. Often, this work entails leveraging their agency and engaging in social justice work. This practice is complex, and is not limited to the classroom. Rather, it should include considerations of the social context in which teachers work. In addition, teachers must consider the way they are perceived as an effective teacher by students. In order to move beyond the shame of being a teacher, it is important to reassess their identities.
Importance of professional development for new teachers
In addition to a traditional classroom, online teacher-education programs can enhance a new teacher’s skills and knowledge. Some online programs focus on subject-specific topics, such as teaching English as a second language, or online safety and social media. However, no matter what kind of program you choose, professional development should be considered an ongoing investment. Investing in professional development ensures continued professional growth and academic growth for educators and students. Teaching is a rapidly changing field, so educators must keep up with current trends to remain effective. Continuing education also gives them the tools to enhance their skill sets and develop curriculum that prepares students for success.
Professional development for new teachers should be available to all educators. In addition to enhancing the skills of teachers, it also helps them grow into future leaders in education. Lack of access to quality PD can diminish a teacher’s impact during the instructional time, resulting in a less equipped teacher to serve the community. In addition to enhancing a new teacher’s knowledge and skills, professional development also helps a teacher improve their own teaching practice.
Also Read: The National Education Association
Impact of technology on teacher preparation
The study examined how the use of online technology influences teacher preparation. This paper highlights the impact of technology on teacher preparation and the effectiveness of online training. The authors have incorporated the technology into teacher preparation programs through a blend of quantitative and qualitative methods. They analyzed quantitative data using simple means and standard deviation, and qualitative data under themes. Technology use by teacher-trainees was found to be common, but also difficult. Most participants did not have the technical expertise to use the online tools, including LMSs.
A recent study concluded that teachers felt overwhelmed and overpaid as a result of the adoption of new educational technologies. This stress affects their performance, teacher training, and burnout. The study also notes that teachers who integrate technology into the classroom have a tendency to resist using it. The researchers believe that teachers who feel technostress are more likely to resist using it or use it inappropriately, which can lead to burnout. But what about the benefits of technology?