Publication Date

4-21-2023

Subjects

Beginning teachers, Educational change, Educational policy, Preservice teacher education, Public policy, Teacher education curriculum, Teacher improvement

Abstract

This submission in response to the 2023 Teacher Education Expert Panel Discussion Paper argues that improving teacher quality requires a system-wide, career-long approach to teacher education rather than a narrow focus on initial teacher education (ITE) programs. While supporting rigorous ITE standards, evidence-based content, robust assessment, and consistent accreditation, ACER contends that teacher preparation must be understood within a broader continuum encompassing recruitment, induction, mentoring, professional learning, career progression, and retention. Drawing on Australian and international research, the submission highlights the importance of supportive workplace conditions, structured early-career support, and coherent professional pathways to strengthen teacher workforce sustainability and effectiveness. It recommends that future reviews of teacher education consider the career-long development of teachers in the context of enabling systems. An expanded focus would enable comprehensive mapping of teacher preparation and ongoing professional learning along an integrated progression from novice to expert. Teacher education is a complex and multi-faceted prospect with momentous consequences, and this response contends that it should be considered across its full scope and in all its complexity.

Download

Share

 
COinS