by Revel Arroway

Created on: November 28, 2009   Last Updated: December 29, 2009

Professionalism in a teacher is based on that teacher’s educational background, experience and empathy with the students and their parents. It can be mandated by the authority of an administration but is often the outcome of the personal development of the teacher. Although in most cases a person can recognize a professional either through uniform or title, the teacher is placed in the delicate situation of presenting a different professional façade to each of those that pass through the classroom. 

Administrative professionalism

Teachers will often be expected to comply with the internal rules and regulations of a school or institution. Besides dress-codes and time-tables, teachers are many times expected to participate in the more mundane aspects of running a school: taking attendance, maintaining discipline, administering exams, recording grades.

These activities become a source of support for teachers when difficulties arise with students or parents. By punctually recording and reporting tardiness or absences in class, both administrators and teachers can offer hard facts about a student’s participation in class. Taking part in the disciplinary structure of the school fosters a peaceful place to work and learn. It also marks the teacher as an authority figure who serves as a role model for both students and parents. Giving exams is the most traditional way of measuring the progress made by students as well as the effectiveness of the teaching techniques used. 

Classroom professionalism

Teachers represent the bridge between not knowing and knowing. By being qualified in their subject matter, they demonstrate that they are able to provide answers to questions that crop up or have the means to guide the student in finding those answers.

In addition to expertise, teachers will also have gone through training that gives them methods and tools that are helpful in sharing and aiding students in the assimilation of the information. Just as a doctor must study both anatomy as well as bedside manner to be an effective professional, a teacher should combine the study of their subject with methods available in presenting material. 

Professional training

Participating in education as a teacher creates the responsibility to be on the cutting edge. This applies not only to new information or facts in the subject area. Teachers should be in a constant recycling state of mind. New teaching tools can be learned, used in the classes, added

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