Foundations and Assessment of Education/Edition 1/Foundations Table of Contents/Chapter 1/Chapter Introduction

Chapter One Introduction: The Educator as a Professional
As a general rule, teachers teach more by what they are than by what they say. Chapter one introduces the educator as a professional and defines many important concepts of the teaching career. The question of why teachers choose to teach is answered, as well as what it takes to be a teacher. Requirements for teaching are described, such as passion and creativity, as well as the rewards and challenges of this fulfilling career. Is teaching really a profession, and what makes a good teacher? Are the best teachers the most qualified? Many wonder what the future holds for teachers, or why teachers leave the profession. These are difficult questions that this chapter attempts to answer. Checklists and guides to becoming a good teacher, as well as the standards of teaching and what constitutes a good teacher are reviewed. Nontraditional education careers, such as coordinators who deliver information to students through unique methods, are introduced, as well as their advantages, disadvantages, and effectiveness.

After reading all content articles, the reader will most likely gain a greater appreciation of teachers and understand the specific responsibilities and characteristics their jobs entail.