ABSTRACT
This chapter examines issues of professionalism in education, discussing broader changes in educational occupations globally but with particular reference to the context of teaching in England. First, we examine what we mean by professions, professionalism and ‘professionalisation’ in education, discussing the role of governments, representative bodies and educational institutions in developing professionals and their role in society. Secondly, we consider some prominent models of professionalism in education, highlighting more descriptive models based on sociological and historical study and some more normative approaches which emphasise particular views of teacher professionalism. Next, we discuss issues of teachers’ professional knowledge and expertise, before finally addressing the development of teaching standards and the importance of values in teaching. Throughout the chapter we aim to raise questions about educational professionalism that you can consider as part of your study of education, and suggest some further readings for further exploration of the key themes.
