List four of the elements that characterize a profession. For each one, summarize the arguments both for and against calling teaching a profession

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ANSWER: A profession provides a definite, unique, essential service; relies on intellectual skills; requires special training; permits autonomy for members; assumes personal responsibility for consequences; emphasizes services rather than rewards; is self-governing; and has a code of ethics. Evidence in support of calling teaching a profession includes the following: the fact that teachers are specialists who pass on key skills; they teach thinking skills; they train continuously; they exercise a great deal of personal control; they are accountable for effectiveness; and they attempt to influence law and licensure, and to maintain standards. Evidence arguing against calling teaching a profession includes the following: that everyone may be a teacher; many people have education equal to that of teachers; relatively little training is required; teachers' power is greater only than that of students; teachers' influence on professional governance is limited; there are no repercussions for ineptitude; there is limited interest in excellence; and teachers have low status and low pay