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How professionalism relates to being an effective teacher for 2010 and beyond, can be viewed in very different lights. Eggen & Kauchak (2009) states " Professionalism in teaching is shown through a strong code of ethics, pedagogical content of knowledge and knowledge of learners". Teachers identify professionalism in different ways. We seek to improve teacher impacts on students by optimising student learning. This can be supported by teachers being knowledgeable on subject matter, students and there teaching methods. As teachers we give a specialised, unique service to educate children and improve their skills and knowledge that will assist them throughout their lives.
To support this, teachers have given their responses to how professionalism relates to their teaching methods and how professionalism makes for an effective teacher.
Transcript of Professionalism Presentation
Interview Question: How does being a professional relate to being an effective teacher for 2010 and beyond?
Responses
I think educators and teachers are becoming more noticed in society, as society becomes more educated themselves. I think there is more of a focus on the professionalism of teachers and how they are represented in society. I think even how the National Curriculum is coming in, there is more accountability and there is more benchmarking. Teachers are being ranked on how well their students are doing (C. Long, personal communication, July 20, 2009).
Professionalism can initially effect the kids, as they grow up to be adults. As teachers we are role models, so acting proffessionally, speaking professionally, having attitudes that are appropriate, will eventually rub off onto the children, and will affect them in a positve way. Hopefully one day they will see or model the behaviour you have demonstrated or the attitudes you have demonstrated as a professional, and may infulence them to be better people (N. Chemmi, personal communication, July 20, 2009).
I have been a teacher now for over thirty years. And in that time I have found times have changed. Professionalism to me means that I should be a good role model for the children. In the way I speak, I act, and the way I present things to them. And my reactions to the way they speak to me. I think it is very important to the childrenthat you don't judge them because of homes they come from and how their parents might be as adults (C. Walsh, personal communication, July 20, 2009).
I think professionalism is a big part of being a teacher. Because you have to use it for alot of different things, esspesially in early childhood. Because we work with children and parents and families. And we also have to relate to other teachers, esspecially in schools when it is school transition time. You use it during the day with the children in a different way then you do when you communicate with parents. it helps you be an effective communicator, espessially when you are trying to help the parents with comething they are having trouble with (E. Smith, personal communication, July 20, 2009).
As educators we need to continue our professional development. And keep up with trends and research in teaching and learning standards, and catering for the needs of all children in our class. As we are presneted with a variey of needs each year (C. Long, personal communication, July 20, 2009).
Attributes of a Professional Teacher as cited in Whitton et al. (2004 p. 46)
