Abstract

This book encourages teacher educators to promote flexible and sustainable practice in their students, enabling them to flourish within an ever-changing educational environment. Research from the UK and US strongly indicates that a coherent theory-practice approach to teacher preparation is key.  The book outlines what such a framework can look like, a rationale for it, and how it can work in practice for groups and individuals. It explores the notions of the reflexive teacher, creativity as a basis for practice, and criticality as a necessary underpinning for educators. The discussion draws on the research and experiences of teacher educators, student teachers and in-service teachers, from NQTs to Lead Practitioners and senior management. It proposes the foundational understanding for beginning teachers to join a community of practice based on scholarship, professionalism and ethical practice.

This book is part of the successful Critical Guides for Teacher Educators series edited by Ian Menter.

I just wanted to let you know that I ordered your book "Developing
creative and critical educational practitioners" last week. When it
turned up I started reading it one evening and I couldn't put it down,
I read it from cover to cover in one sitting! I've actually committed
the terrible sin of scribbling notes in the margins and highlighting
sections...I know it's a terrible thing to do but I think its a sign
of a good book! I'm definitely looking forward to referencing it in my
Masters work'

Victoria Dooris based at Keele University, where she works with developing teachers from PGCE to PhD level, including CPD for whole schools. She is an advocate of keeping educational practice alive and kicking, whether in the classroom or the seminar room, by giving a give high priority to practitioners’ lived experience and through reflexivity. i

A very insightful and thought provoking read offering a wide range of strategies for teacher educators to consider. What is helpful and extremely useful about this book is the fact that it explores how teacher educators can develop critical practitioners for the future. It outlines what the key barriers and issues are regarding reflection and criticality, and offers a wide range of practical advice, key research and a detailed outline of considered approaches. It is insightful and thought provoking. It will certainly help any highly experience practitioner to continue to deepen their practice as a teacher educator too.

Lizana Oberholzer, NASBTT