A Sociological Analysis of the Teaching Profession in Taiwan

Author: Jia-Li Huang(Center for Teacher Education and Graduate School of Education, Ming Chuan University)

Vol.&No.：Vol. 53, No. 3
Date：December 2008
Pages：125-151
DOI：10.3966/2073753X2008125303006

Abstract：

In the context of the “sociology of profession” of trait, strategy and relationship approaches, this article discusses the ideals and practices of Taiwan’s teacher-training programs. As to its social function, it is argued that teaching should be primarily an academic profession and thus not primarily social-political in nature. The author also suggests that there are four primary issues regarding professional knowledge and teacher education: (1) the nature of professional capital, (2) the separate function of teacher certification, (3) the intermediary role of government, and (4) the re-professionalization or de- professionalization of teaching. It is hoped that this article’s conclusions may be helpful to future discussions of the teaching profession in Taiwan, and to the promotion of this profession.

Keywords：teacher profession, teacher certification, sociology of profession, professional knowledge

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