The idea of a teaching apprenticeship seems to be a sensible approach to teacher training, and I have just finished reading a few blogs of students that quite passionately support this idea over the theory dominated degree that we are currently required to complete, and they make some great points. Read them here, here and here.
This got me wondering whether this has always been the case with teacher training, and if not, how did it come to be. A quick Google search and I came across this very informative article. It really is an interesting (although long) read. It takes us back to where it all began, from the 1800’s where teachers were recruited from the general population and from reformed convicts (no blue cards back then!), to where we are today.
A few fun facts from the article:
The first teacher training programs in the early 1800’s were conducted at what was called Normal Schools and were about 1 month in duration. These eventually failed when teachers abandoned schools to join the Gold rush!
The apprenticeship system was introduced in the 1860’s and promising 13-14 year old students were selected from the classroom to become apprentices.
As research about educational theories gained attention, focus began to shift to the role of theory in teacher training and teacher colleges began in the early 1920’s, although the apprenticeship model continued.
The death of the apprenticeship seems to have multiple causes, but perhaps the most influential was as teaching began to be recognised as a serious ‘profession’, it was decided that they needed to be university scholars.
So where do I stand on it all? Somewhere in the middle perhaps (cop out, I know). I really do value the theory side of what we are taught, but can definitely see the benefits of more regular practicums.
Kerryn's EDC3100 Blog 