ABSTRACT
There have been remarkable changes in the landscape for teacher preparation since the time of Anne Shirley. The work of a professional is characterized by at least seven essential features. First, the work of a professional is tied to areas of significance in our lives. Second, the disciplines that surround these professions have rich and deep knowledge bases that are constantly expanding through research and inquiry. Third, professions are situated within working spaces that are highly ambiguous and nuanced. Fourth, professions are characterized by highly contextualized decision-making that is responsive to the local context. Fifth, most of the professions are client-oriented. Sixth, professions have extended layers of preparation in their field. Seventh, the learning of professionals continues throughout their lives and is tied to their practice. The technical view of teacher education is best represented in the Competency Based Teacher Education (CBTE) movement of the 1960s.
