Learning, Leading, and the Best-Loved Self in Teaching and Teacher Education

The book explores the concept of the best-loved self in teaching and teacher education, asserting that it is foundational to the development of teacher identity, growth in context, and learning in community. Drawing on the work of Joseph Schwab, the editors and contributors extend this knowledge further through the collaboration of the Faculty Academy, a group of teacher educators who have examined teacher education for over two decades.

Format: Hardback
Length: 348 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the profound concept of the "best-loved self" in the realm of teaching and teacher education, asserting that it holds the key to the development of a teacher's identity, personal growth, and meaningful learning within a community. Drawing upon the pioneering insights of Joseph Schwab, the visionary who first coined this term, the editors and their esteemed contributors have collaborated extensively with a group of experienced teacher educators, collectively known as the Faculty Academy. Together, they have dedicated over two decades to examining the intricacies of teacher education, further enriching our understanding of this critical field.

Within the pages of this insightful text, readers embark on a transformative journey as they explore the intricate connections between the best-loved self and the various aspects of teaching and teacher education. The editors and their contributors shed light on how the best-loved self serves as a foundational element for teachers to establish a strong sense of self, cultivate meaningful relationships with their students, and foster a sense of belonging within their professional community.

The book delves into the profound impact of the best-loved self on teacher identity development. It highlights how teachers can embrace their unique qualities, values, and passions, allowing them to develop a personalized and authentic teaching style that resonates with their students. By embracing their best-loved self, teachers can tap into their creativity, enthusiasm, and passion, which in turn fosters a positive and engaging learning environment.

Moreover, the book emphasizes the importance of the best-loved self in promoting personal growth and development. Teachers can use this concept to reflect on their experiences, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for self-improvement. By nurturing their best-loved self, teachers can cultivate a sense of continuous learning and professional growth, ensuring that they remain relevant and effective in their roles.

In addition to its impact on individual teachers, the best-loved self also plays a crucial role in fostering learning within a community. Teachers who embrace their best-loved self can create a sense of shared purpose and values, which promotes collaboration, teamwork, and mutual respect among their colleagues. This collaborative spirit not only enhances the quality of teaching and learning but also contributes to a positive school culture and a sense of belonging among students and staff.

To further enhance our understanding of the best-loved self in teaching and teacher education, the book offers a wealth of practical insights and strategies. It provides teachers with practical tools and exercises to help them identify and nurture their best-loved self, as well as strategies for integrating this concept into their teaching practices. The book also includes case studies and examples from real-world classrooms, showcasing the transformative power of the best-loved self in promoting student learning and teacher growth.

In conclusion, this captivating book explores the profound concept of the best-loved self in teaching and teacher education. It asserts that the best-loved self is foundational to the development of teacher identity, personal growth, and meaningful learning within a community. By drawing on the insights of Joseph Schwab and collaborating with the Faculty Academy, the editors and their contributors have enriched our understanding of this critical field. Through practical insights, case studies, and strategies, this book provides teachers with the tools they need to embrace their best-loved self, cultivate personal growth, and create a positive and inclusive learning environment for their students.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 216 x 156 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031119019
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023