Comperative Study on Teacher Polices - Methodology and Main Findings

• In Event: Network of Education Policy Centers' (NEPC) panel on teachers’ policies

Abstract

The paper aims to present the main findings of the Network of Education Policy Centers study on teacher policies in 10 countries of Eastern and South East Europa and Central Asia. The methodology that was adapted based on SABRE research as well as main findings will be presented. The study starts from the belief that teachers are the core agents of all real change in education systems and the promoters of quality education. Without highly professional and motivated teachers, a quality education system cannot be built, nor can effectiveness in learning be achieved without proactive teacher policies. Comparative analysis of teacher policies in ten countries presented in this paper gives only an introductory overview of the complexities faced by members of the teaching profession in these countries. It illustrates several common challenges that may be jointly addressed through collaboration by researchers, education practitioners and policy makers from these countries to name a few such as :
-poor link between the policy framework level and the implementation level affecting teaching practices;
- Lack of competence standard frameworks for teachers and school principals that could guide quality assurance in the field and provide a basis for the development of coherent teacher education programmes from initial education to induction period and through continuous professional development;
- Lack of participatory approach to improving professionalism of teachers etc.
The paper will also suggest possible improvements in the area of teacher policies and practice in the named counitres such as:
- Greater autonomy for teachers and schools, with clear performance requirements and incentives set by national policies;
- Stronger link between reform requirements and funding;
- More advanced and regular research on teaching and learning etc.
The paper provides a framework for the two other panel papers which will be focused on current situation regarding teacher polices in two countires Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Authors

• Lana Jurko, Network of Educational Policy Centers

• Maria Golubeva, Access Lab