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Why Do We License Teachers?
Abstract:
This paper focuses on the debate about various licensure policies, reviews some of the evidence on the efficacy of those policies, and suggests ways to learn more about key licensure policy issues. The author reviews arguments for and against alternative teacher licensure, but suggests instead framing the debate around the state's regulatory role in the teacher labor market. Those favoring deregulation see alternative policies as a means of enticing large numbers of talented people who would otherwise be put off by the hurdles of traditional teacher preparation. Others feel that deregulating downgrades the profession and is potentially harmful to children.
Studying the ramifications of traditional and alternative licensure policies is difficult, the author notes, because of few data sources that allow methodologically rigorous research. Rather than focusing on traditional versus alternative, he calls for more thoughtful reflection of specific policies that might encourage promising individuals to enter the teacher labor market. He urges that a reconceptualization of licensure go hand-in-hand with a focus on mentoring and training opportunities.
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| Strand(s): | Preparation & Induction |
| Author: | Goldhaber, D. |
| Publisher: | Harvard Education Press |
| Publication Date: | 2004 |
| Publication City: | Cambridge |
| Publication State: | MA |
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