teachertraining

Teacher training, also known as teacher education, refers to the processes by which individuals acquire the knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions required to teach in schools. It encompasses both initial preparation of new teachers and continuing development for practicing educators. Training combines theoretical study with practical classroom experience.

Pre-service training often includes subject matter knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge, instructional design, assessment literacy, classroom management, inclusive education, literacy and numeracy strategies, and use of educational technology. It usually culminates in student teaching or practicum periods under supervision to connect theory with practice.

Pathways to teaching vary by country. Common routes include university-based teacher education programs leading to licensure, alternative certification programs for career changers, and teacher residencies that pair coursework with extended mentored practice. In some systems, licensing requires passing examinations and completing a supervised practicum.

In-service professional development focuses on updating skills and addressing classroom needs. Activities include workshops, coaching, professional learning communities, lesson study, reflection, and micro-credentials or online courses. Effective PD is often sustained, collaborative, job-embedded, and aligned with standards and assessments.

Standards and regulation set expectations for teacher qualifications, licensure, and program accreditation. Continuous professional development may be required to maintain certification, and schools may offer internal mentoring and evaluation processes to support teacher growth.

Evidence on effectiveness shows modest gains in student outcomes when training is well designed and linked to classroom practice, though results vary by context. Challenges include teacher shortages, workload, access to high-quality programs, equity of opportunity, and the need to align training with local curricula and assessment systems.

Global practice varies widely. Some countries emphasize prolonged practicum and university-based degrees, others rely on shorter certificates or alternative routes. Investments in teacher training are widely viewed as central to improving educational quality and equity.