Continuing teacher education programs have undergone a variety of changes in recent years. For example, the Common Core State Standards, the Next Generation Science Standards, and virtual instruction are all in the news. Other changes include student-centered learning, a focus on social-emotional learning, and more. But while there are many changes in the field, one key constant is the importance of face-to-face instruction. No teacher education program is untouched by these trends.
Common Core State Standards
A recent survey shows that most teachers still feel well prepared to teach the Common Core State Standards. In fact, nearly half (49%) feel very prepared, compared to fewer than twenty percent last year. Additionally, nearly half (47%) say they understand the standards better than they did before implementation. And despite the mixed reactions to Common Core, many teachers say the standards have been beneficial to their students. However, only 35% say the changes will have little impact on their profession.
The Common Core standards were written over 18 months, beginning with a report by three main groups in late 2008. They were published for expert and public comment and finalized in June 2010. Each group outlined its reasoning, describing the goals and objectives of the standards. The new standards are intended to improve two major problems: academic achievement and college readiness. In both areas, American students rank in the middle of the pack, and the policymakers and business leaders hope that these new standards will improve the situation. By the way, if you are a student and you need to write a good essay quickly and accurately, the service studycrumb will help you. They are professionals in their field.
Next Generation Science Standards
The new science standards are aimed at engaging kids, in theory, making science more relevant and imparting a deeper appreciation of the subject. However, their push from facts to practice has left some observers cold. In fact, a recent review of the new standards by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute gave the new standards a “C.”
The NGSS, or Next Generation Science Standards, are the result of research and development, which has shaped a framework for science education. Achieve Inc., an organization dedicated to improving student learning, facilitated the process. While NGSS has created a more rigorous framework for science education, there is a lack of materials to support its implementation. In addition, few teachers are engaged in the essential practices of the framework. Further, few assessments measure the three-dimensional performance expectations. If you are a student and don’t know how to write essays properly, check out the free essay examples on Study Bounty. They have a great service with a helpful blog.
Virtual Instruction
In the beginning, many teachers in the U.S. expected to spend some time teaching to a screen, not the actual student in front of them. As schools resume, however, more teachers will have both in-person and virtual students on their rosters. While many schools have started splitting classes into smaller groups, some families have opted to keep their kids home in order to attend classes in person. Virtual instruction, while promising, has its drawbacks.
Pre-service teacher education that incorporates virtual classroom technologies must address student mythology. Specifically, virtual instruction must address respondents’ longing for past experiences and feel cheated out of their college experience. The virtual classroom must support student mythology and their collective online presence. It should be inclusive and equitable and meet student expectations for personal growth and professional development. Teachers must be trained to work with virtual students, not against them. However, they must also be able to provide high-quality online support for virtual students and teachers.
Student-centered Learning
The benefits of student-centered learning are numerous. In an educational setting, it helps to make learning more relevant, meaningful, and interactive. The approach also gives students a voice and encourages critical thinking and creativity. It’s not just a trend, but it has been around for decades. Many teachers and schools implement this approach. Here are some of the benefits and ways to incorporate it into your teaching. It’s not too late to learn about it.
One advantage of SCL is that student-centered learning allows students to determine their final outcomes. The teacher provides parameters, but the students determine how to demonstrate mastery. As long as they are interested, they can design a learning experience that meets their needs and interests. Other benefits of SCL include student-driven goal-setting. Students determine how they will show mastery of standards and create their own deadlines. Technology is an excellent tool for student-centered learning.
Leadership Roles for Teachers
While every teacher can lead by example, it takes a specific set of skills and knowledge to be a great leader. Leaders cultivate relationships, build influence, and facilitate collaborative efforts. In addition to leading in the classroom, teachers also take on leadership roles outside the classroom. These extracurricular programs and activities build school culture and require extra leadership support. Teacher initiative and leadership skills foster endless academic and social opportunities for students.
In addition to influencing school culture and practice, teacher leaders also advocate for their profession and students. As teacher leaders, exercise their best judgment and promote the value of education and the profession. Teacher leadership has always been informal, but it must be encouraged and supported to improve student learning. Here are some examples of teacher leadership:
