Portrait of a Profession: Teaching and Teachers in the 21st Century

This provocative text offers an inside look at the hidden dimensions of teaching. Sometimes controversial, always poignant, the book examines highly debated issues fundamental to a free and open society. School reform is at a critical juncture; the portrait of the profession revealed here serves as a catalyst for change. Chapters discuss such timely and relevant topics as the preparation of teachers past and present, the daily work of teachers, and the influence of current policy on public education. Teaching our children is a shared responsibility. The work of teaching described in this book demonstrates clearly that there is much work to be done by all involved. This book will inform and empower a wide range of readers including those considering careers in teaching, those who have children in school, who vote and pay taxes, work in schools, influence policy, or those who are business leaders.

Table of Contents:
1 In Search of a Profession: A History of American Teachers 2 Teacher Preparation-Transition and Turmoil 3 Teachers as Leaders, Teachers as Researchers, Teachers who Care: The University of Connecticut's Journey 4 Walk a Mile in Their Shoes: A Day in the Life of Professional Educators 5 Key Challenges for Teachers: Windows into the Complexity of American Classrooms 6 Technology and Professional Development 7 "Highly Qualified" Teachers and the Teaching Profession: Policy Lessons from the Field 8 What's Next? Challenges and Opportunities Facing Teachers and the Teaching Profession

About the Author :
David M. Mossis associate professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Neag School of Education, University of Connecticut. Wendy J. Glenn is assistant professor, Neag School of Education, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Connecticut. Richard L. Schwab is dean, Neag School of Education, University of Connecticut

Review :
[A]n impressive collection of essays accurately describing the evolution of teaching and education in the United States....Although dispelling myths is not the primary purpose of this book, it does provide the truth about how education and the profession of teaching came to their current state, much of which contradicts widely held assumptions....This book is a great balance of fact and position and an excellent tool for assessing the truth about where education and teaching stand today compared to years past. This book provides valuable insights into the real world of teaching and will appeal to prospective teachers, administrators, parents, and community members. Recommended. Districts lacking the proper number of HQTs face requirements to inform parents in Title I schools, and all schools must make HQT figures public. Think about the potential headlines. Then let the trembling begin. [P]resents a nice overview of the numerous issues facing contemporary US K-12 schools. The book generally targets the roles of and challenges faced by US teachers. It includes chapters focusing on the history of public school teachers; the numerous, complex professional challenges teachers face in their practices; and professional development of teachers....[w]ill be of considerable interest to advanced students and faculty members engaged in teacher preparation. Summing Up: Recommended.