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How has the approach to teacher training changed over the years, and what can that tell us about the future of education?

Nelle McGerraghty

Hey there,

The approach to teacher training has undergone a significant transformation over the years, which has undoubtedly influenced the future of education.

Initially, teacher training was heavily focused on the transmission of knowledge from mentors to students, with the pedagogy revolving around instructing the 'right' methods for delivering subject matter. Additionally, teacher training was regarded as a means of facilitating the socialization of pupils, teaching them the necessary skills to become responsible citizens.

Advancements in psychology and pedagogy, however, led to a switch in approach towards training teachers. Teacher training programs centered less on the mastery of subject matter and more on developing the skills and techniques to impart it effectively.

The current approaches capitalize on a growth mindset, where teachers are challenged to learn and adapt continuously and equip students with skills that will enable success beyond the confines of the classroom. This approach has made teacher education an ongoing process, with an emphasis on professional development even after obtaining necessary qualifications.

The integration of technology in education has necessitated a new approach to teacher training. Educators require a level of digital literacy to effectively deliver content and interact with digital natives. The evolution of digital teaching methods has led to teachers training programs that cover technology integration, flipped classrooms, and active learning methodologies.

To delve into the future of education, one should look at employment trends. According to research, by 2030, millions of jobs worldwide will be lost to automation, and a substantial number of new jobs will require new skills. This shift in the job market has direct implications for the future of education, with education systems expected to adapt to new skill demands.

The future of education, therefore, lies in preparing students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will enable them to navigate a rapidly evolving world. This approach, in turn, requires skilled teachers who can adjust to new teaching methodologies. As such, the teacher training programs of the future will emphasize a focus on skills that promote thinking and learning over rote memorization.

In conclusion, the approach to teacher training has undergone significant transformation over the years, and the current approach capitalizes on a growth mindset. With advancements in technology, the future of education lies in the preparation of students with crucial skills for the future job market. Consequently, teacher training programs will focus on building necessary skills that promote critical thinking and problem-solving to meet changing demands in the education sector.

Hope that helps.