Teacher as Manager
The aspects considered within this element of the resource focus on the management of the teaching and classroom which the student teacher needs to reflect upon in moving towards Qualified Teacher Status. The aspects to be considered include communication; behaviour management; the legal framework; organisation of time, space and resources (human and physical), and; assessment and record-keeping.
Whilst recognising the importance of subject knowledge in establishing an exciting and stimulating classroom environment, a purposeful learning environment (DfES 2002), the value of managing the diverse nature of the classroom is essential in enabling children to learn. Teachers may be managers of subject areas or even age phases, but it is essential that all teachers develop management strategies in the classroom which may inform developing professionals as they move past the initial teacher education phase.
The concept of the teacher as manager is established as important in effective teaching. For the last 50 years research has examined the effectiveness of schools in particular teaching styles, but the OECD collected data from 11 countries and identified five dimensions:
- Knowledge of substantive curriculum areas and content;
- Pedagogic skill, including the acquisition of and ability to use a repertoire of teaching strategies;
- Reflection and the ability to be self-critical, the hallmark of teacher professionalism;
- Empathy and the commitment to the acknowledgement of the dignity of others;
- Managerial competence, as teachers assume a range of managerial responsibilities within and beyond the classroom. (Turner-Bisset, 2001 p 6)
The professional standards for Qualified Teacher Status (DfES 2002) have been the forerunners of the standards debate for teachers with professionals now expected to continue their professional development and meet standards for threshold, excellent teacher and even chartered status (in London). This element of the resource will allow student teachers to reflect on 'managerial competence' not only for the beginning of their careers but as they move forward in their new profession.
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