TEACHER INDUCTION: The Way Ahead (Developing Teacher Education) Book

"Les Tickle's work is notable for its solid grounding in excellent fieldwork and the sympathetic voice he gives to teachers. His research in teacher education has helped shape our understanding of what teachers do and how we think about their roles and their learning. Because of his affinity for colleagues in the education profession he provides sensible guidance based on scholarly work which makes sense to the people about and for whom it is written" - Professor Howard Johnston, University of South Florida, Tampa. This book focuses on the stage of induction into the teaching profession. It draws on research and practical experiences, including those of new teachers, and considers professional development in the context of international concerns for the quality of education and standards of teaching. In asking 'how can teacher education for this career stage be best conceptualised, designed, and provided?' the author has explored in detail what it is that teachers are expected to know and be able to do on entry into the profession. He challenges some common assumptions about induction, and about teachers' knowledge, considering both in relation to the school curriculum. The book offers a re-conceptualisation of induction; practical principles for the development of new teachers' practice which will enable them to contribute actively to the reconstruction of education; and proposals for support programmes to go beyond the first year of teaching. It will be important reading for teacher educators and school based mentors with responsibility for induction and continuing professional development.