Communities: Keywords in Teacher Education

This book explores the multiple meanings of community in teacher education research from an international perspective, highlighting exemplary work that represents different strands of community-focused and community-based teacher education. It advocates for a view of teacher education that disrupts existing power hierarchies and involves parents, families, and local communities in the preparation of teachers and teacher educators. It also explores the links between equity and justice in education in marginalized communities and suggests that decolonial approaches to teacher education can help shift power relations and create culturally sustaining and revitalizing forms of education.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive volume delves into the diverse interpretations of the concept of community in the context of teacher education research, taking a global perspective. It showcases exemplary work that exemplifies various strands of community-focused and community-based teacher education. Moreover, it aims to provide a clear understanding of the current landscape of work on incorporating communities into teacher education. In his advocacy, Ken Zeichner argues for a transformative vision of teacher education that challenges and dismantles existing power hierarchies. He proposes that parents/carers, families, and local communities should assume central roles in the preparation of teachers and teacher educators. Zeichner also advocates for a teaching approach that encompasses instruction, curriculum development, and active community participation. He explores the connections between equity and justice in education within marginalized communities and demonstrates how decolonial approaches to teacher education that leverage community expertise can contribute to the reshaping of power dynamics, leading to the creation of culturally sustaining and revitalizing educational practices.

Introduction:
The concept of community has gained significant importance in the field of teacher education research, as it recognizes the significance of collaboration and partnerships in shaping educators' practices and attitudes. This volume aims to explore the multifaceted meanings of community in the context of teacher education, drawing from international perspectives. It seeks to provide examples of exemplary work that represent different strands of community-focused and community-based teacher education.

Defining Community in Teacher Education Research:
Community in teacher education research encompasses a wide range of stakeholders, including teachers, teacher educators, students, parents/carers, families, and local communities. It refers to the relationships and interactions that exist within these groups and the ways in which they contribute to the development and improvement of teacher education programs. Communities can be defined in various ways, such as geographic proximity, shared interests, values, and goals.

Examples of Exemplary Work:
To illustrate the diverse interpretations of community in teacher education research, this volume presents a selection of exemplary work that represents different strands of community-focused and community-based teacher education. These examples showcase the ways in which communities can be engaged in teacher education, including collaborative partnerships, community-based learning, and the use of community resources.

Challenges and Opportunities:
While incorporating communities into teacher education offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges. One of the primary challenges is the need to establish effective communication and collaboration between different stakeholders. This requires building trust, respecting diverse perspectives, and fostering a sense of shared ownership. Another challenge is the need to address power dynamics within communities, as they can influence the participation and representation of marginalized groups.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this volume examines the multiple meanings of the term community in relation to teacher education research from an international perspective. It highlights examples of exemplary work that represent different strands of community-focused and community-based teacher education. By advocating for a view of teacher education that disrupts existing power hierarchies and involves parents/carers, families, and local communities, Zeichner seeks to create a more equitable and inclusive educational system. The insights and perspectives presented in this volume contribute to our understanding of the role of community in teacher education and provide valuable guidance for practitioners and policymakers.

Weight: 176g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350173330