This book introduces a field of educational research called 'teacher learning' as it applied to the teaching of second language. Until recently, the study of second language teacher education focused mainly on the knowledge base and teaching skills of teachers and teacher-in-preparation. This book approaches teacher education from a different point of view, through an exploration of the thinking and learning processes employed by teachers as they learn to teach.This text introduces a new field of educational research, "teacher learning," as it applies to the teaching of languages. The paperback edition introduces a new field of educational research called "teacher learning," as it applies to the teaching of languages. Seventeen original articles, based on studies done in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, provide examples of theory and research into teacher learning .
Requirement for Teacher Training :-
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A bachelor's degree and a master’s degree within five years |
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Teachers training which includes knowledge of pedagogical methods through course work and practical field experiences, they must work as student teachers. A state exam is conducted on the subject. |
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Evaluation through standardized state or national level exams, in the subjects they teach and the methods of teaching. This evaluation would be continued throughout right through their careers. |
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| Enhancing Teacher Learning Programs: |
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The new education policy is stressing in better teaching of science and mathematics. Special learning initiatives enhance teacher knowledge of these subjects. |
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English is the focus of better learning methods. Teachers are trained to teach the language better to students who may not know the language well. |
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There is a special focus on training teachers to deal with learning disabilities. |
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It has become understood that teachers are linchpins in educational reforms of all kinds. In fact, Michael Fullan, a well-known contemporary writer on educational change, suggests that "teachers' capacities to deal with change, learn from it, and help students learn from it will be critical for the future development of societies". This means that teacher learning - how, what, and under what conditions teachers learn to respond to the needs of a changing society - is among the most important issues in educational policy and practice. A strong emphasis on teacher learning is part of what has been referred to as a new paradigm of professional development or a new model of teacher education. The new professional development is conceptualized as continuous teacher learning over time. Early research about how teachers think about their work prompted a shift in emphasis away from what teachers do and toward what they know, what their sources of knowledge are, how those sources influence their work in classrooms, and how they make decisions and construct curriculum within conditions that are ultimately uncertain and changing.
