Some educational theorists have argued that teaching is not a profession and that making it a profession will solve many of the problems within American public schools. First, critically examine the idea of what a profession is from your perspective. Then, consider how the National Labor Relations Act defined a professional. Discuss why you think teaching is, or is not, a profession. Support your position with examples and reasoned argument. Why do you believe this notion is so controversial?

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The Answer is From my perspective, a profession is a career that requires specialized knowledge, training, and expertise in a particular field. Professionals are typically held to high ethical and moral standards, and they often have a code of conduct or set of professional standards that guide their practice. They also usually have a professional organization or governing body that oversees their work and sets standards for entry into the profession.

The National Labor Relations Act defines a professional as someone who has completed a prolonged course of specialized intellectual instruction and study, as distinguished from a general academic education. This definition aligns with the idea that a profession requires specialized knowledge and training.

When considering teaching as a profession, it is clear that educators undergo specialized training and education in the form of a teaching degree or certification. They also often participate in ongoing professional development to stay current in their field. Additionally, there are professional organizations such as the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers that set standards for teaching practice and advocate for educators.

However, some argue that teaching is not a profession because educators do not have the same level of autonomy and control over their work as other traditional professions. Teachers often have to adhere to strict curriculum guidelines and standardized testing requirements, which can limit their ability to exercise professional judgment in the classroom. Additionally, the lack of competitive salaries and the perception of teaching as a "calling" rather than a career choice contribute to the argument that teaching is not a profession.

This notion is controversial because it has implications for the status and treatment of educators. If teaching were to be officially recognized as a profession, it could lead to higher salaries, increased respect for educators, and more autonomy in the classroom. However, there are also concerns about the potential impact on teacher accountability and the ability to remove underperforming educators from the profession.

In conclusion, while teaching meets many of the criteria for a profession, the lack of autonomy and control over their work, as well as the societal perception of teaching, contribute to the ongoing debate about whether teaching should be considered a profession. Ultimately, the status of teaching as a profession has significant implications for the education system and the treatment of educators.

Some Educational Theorists Have Argued That Teaching Is Not a Profession