UNIT–1: CONCEPT OF TEACHING AND TEACHING PROFESSION
1. Meaning and Concept of Teaching
Teaching is a planned, systematic, and purposeful process aimed at bringing about desirable changes in learners’ behaviour.
Teaching involves three essential elements: teacher, learner, and subject matter. The teacher organizes content and learning experiences in such a way that students can understand, apply, and internalize knowledge.
Teaching is not limited to the transfer of information; rather, it focuses on guiding, motivating, and facilitating learning. It helps learners develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and morally.
Modern teaching emphasizes learner-centered approaches, where students actively participate in the learning process. Teaching also helps in developing critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving ability, and values.
Thus, teaching is both an art, requiring skill and creativity, and a science, based on principles and methods.
Example: A teacher encouraging discussion and questioning while teaching social science concepts.
2. Teaching Profession
Teaching as a profession refers to an organized and socially recognized occupation that requires specialized knowledge, professional training, and ethical commitment.
The teaching profession aims at shaping future citizens and contributing to national development. Teachers play a crucial role in transmitting knowledge, culture, values, and skills from one generation to another.
It demands continuous professional development, dedication, and accountability. Teaching is service-oriented and places greater emphasis on social responsibility rather than monetary gain.
Teachers are expected to follow professional ethics, maintain discipline, and act as role models for learners.
Example: Professionally trained teachers following curricular guidelines prescribed by educational boards.
3. Teacher as a Pedagogue
A pedagogue is a teacher who possesses a deep understanding of teaching–learning processes, child psychology, and pedagogical principles.
The teacher as a pedagogue designs instruction according to the developmental level, interests, and abilities of learners. Such a teacher focuses on conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization.
Pedagogues use appropriate teaching strategies, teaching aids, and assessment techniques to ensure effective learning.
They promote inclusive education, addressing the needs of diverse learners, including slow learners and gifted students.
Example: A teacher using experiments and demonstrations to teach scientific concepts.
4. Teacher as a Facilitator
As a facilitator, the teacher guides and supports learners instead of dominating the classroom.
The teacher creates a positive, democratic, and interactive learning environment where students feel free to express their ideas and opinions.
Facilitators encourage active learning, group work, cooperation, and independent thinking. They help students discover knowledge on their own.
The role of the teacher shifts from being a knowledge giver to a mentor and motivator.
Example: A teacher organizing group activities and discussions instead of continuous lecturing.
5. Teacher as a Reflective Practitioner
A reflective practitioner is a teacher who critically analyzes his or her own teaching practices to improve effectiveness.
Reflection involves thinking about classroom experiences, teaching strategies, student responses, and learning outcomes.
Through reflection, teachers identify their strengths and weaknesses and modify their teaching methods accordingly.
Reflective practice leads to continuous professional growth and innovation in teaching.
Example: A teacher revising lesson plans after observing poor student understanding.
6. Teaching as a Profession: Characteristics
Teaching possesses all the essential characteristics of a profession:
It requires specialized training and qualifications.
It follows professional ethics and standards.
It involves social responsibility and service.
It requires continuous learning and updating of skills.
Teachers are accountable for their professional actions.
Teaching is recognized by society as a profession that contributes significantly to human development.
Example: Teachers attending refresher courses and training programs.
7. Teacher Autonomy and Accountability
Teacher autonomy refers to the freedom given to teachers to plan lessons, choose teaching methods, and use instructional strategies.
Autonomy promotes creativity, innovation, and professional satisfaction. However, autonomy must be balanced with accountability.
Accountability means teachers are responsible for students’ learning outcomes, discipline, and overall development.
Teachers are accountable to students, parents, institutions, and society.
Example: A teacher selecting teaching strategies but ensuring syllabus completion and learning outcomes.
8. Status of Teachers in India
In India, teachers traditionally enjoyed high social status and respect. They were regarded as “Gurus” and guides of life.
Teachers played an important role in moral, spiritual, and intellectual development of learners.
Although social respect remains, changes in economic conditions and educational systems have affected their status.
Government policies aim to restore the dignity and professional recognition of teachers.
Example: Reverence for teachers in the ancient Gurukul system.
9. Changing Role of Teachers and Need for Change
The role of teachers has changed due to globalization, technological advancement, and educational reforms.
Teachers are no longer mere transmitters of knowledge; they are facilitators, mentors, counselors, and innovators.
They must adapt to digital tools, inclusive classrooms, and learner-centered approaches.
The National Education Policy (NEP 2020) emphasizes experiential learning and competency-based education, increasing the need for change.
Example: Teachers using smart classrooms and online platforms.
10. Personal Qualities of Teachers
Personal qualities determine the effectiveness of a teacher. These include:
Emotional stability
Patience and tolerance
Empathy and compassion
Integrity and honesty
Adaptability and creativity
These qualities help teachers maintain positive relationships with students and create a supportive learning environment.
Example: A teacher handling classroom conflicts calmly and fairly.
11. Professional Qualities, Competency, and Skills
Professional qualities include subject mastery, pedagogical competence, communication skills, and classroom management.
Teachers must possess assessment skills, ICT competence, problem-solving ability, and decision-making skills.
Professional competence ensures effective teaching and improved learning outcomes.
Example: A teacher using multiple assessment tools to evaluate students.
12. Code of Conduct and Professional Ethics
The code of conduct guides teachers’ professional behavior. It includes:
Commitment to learners’ welfare
Fair and unbiased assessment
Respect for dignity and diversity
Confidentiality and honesty
Respect for colleagues and institutions
Professional ethics ensure trust, discipline, and integrity in the teaching profession.
Example: Fair grading without favoritism.
13. Teacher Empowerment and Motivation: Issues and Concerns
Teacher empowerment involves providing autonomy, recognition, training, and supportive work conditions.
Major issues include heavy workload, limited promotion opportunities, stress, lack of resources, and inadequate motivation.
Motivated teachers perform better and contribute to quality education.
Empowerment can be achieved through professional development, incentives, and participative decision-making.
Example: Motivation through workshops and leadership roles.
WESTERN AND INDIAN THINKERS ON TEACHING AND TEACHER
Education thinkers have deeply influenced the concept of teaching, role of teacher, methods of instruction, and aims of education. Their ideas continue to shape modern educational practices.
A. INDIAN THINKERS
1. Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948)
Concept of Teaching
Gandhi viewed teaching as a moral, social, and productive activity. According to him, education should develop head, heart, and hand.
Role of Teacher
The teacher is a moral guide and social reformer.
Teachers should lead a simple and disciplined life.
The teacher must connect education with real-life activities.
Teachers should promote self-reliance among learners.
They must cultivate truth, non-violence, and discipline.
Teachers should respect individual differences.
Teaching should be based on activity and experience.
Teachers should use the mother tongue as the medium of instruction.
The teacher must develop national character.
Teachers must serve society selflessly.
Method of Teaching
Learning through productive work (Nai Talim).
Correlation of theory and practice.
Example
Teaching mathematics through spinning, weaving, or farming activities.
2. Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941)
Concept of Teaching
Tagore believed teaching should be natural, joyful, and creative, not rigid or mechanical.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a friend, philosopher, and guide.
Teachers must respect the freedom of the child.
They should nurture creativity and imagination.
Teachers should avoid rote learning and punishment.
Teaching must be in harmony with nature.
Teachers should encourage self-expression.
Teacher should create an aesthetic learning environment.
Education should promote internationalism and human values.
Teachers should recognize each child’s unique potential.
Teachers must inspire a love for learning.
Method of Teaching
Learning through art, music, drama, and nature.
Open classrooms.
Example
Teaching poetry through music and nature walks.
3. Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902)
Concept of Teaching
Vivekananda believed education is the manifestation of perfection already present in man.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a character builder.
Teacher must awaken inner strength and confidence.
Teachers should practice self-control and purity.
Teaching should inspire faith in oneself.
Teachers must act as role models.
Emphasis on man-making education.
Teachers should encourage fearlessness and courage.
Teacher must respect students’ dignity.
Education should be value-oriented.
Teachers should serve humanity.
Method of Teaching
Teaching through inspiration and personal example.
Example
Teacher motivating students to develop leadership and moral courage.
4. Sri Aurobindo (1872–1950)
Concept of Teaching
Aurobindo advocated Integral Education, focusing on total development of personality.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a guide and helper, not an instructor.
Teachers should help learners discover inner potential.
Teachers must respect natural growth.
Education should be child-centered.
Teachers should encourage self-learning.
Emphasis on spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional growth.
Teachers should not impose knowledge.
Learning should be self-directed.
Teachers must create a supportive environment.
Teachers should nurture inner discipline.
Method of Teaching
Learning through self-discovery and reflection
Example
Allowing students to explore topics independently under guidance.
B. WESTERN THINKERS
5. John Dewey (1859–1952)
Concept of Teachings
Dewey viewed teaching as a social and experiential process.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a facilitator of learning.
Teaching should be based on experience.
Teachers must connect school learning with real life.
Teacher should encourage problem-solving.
Teachers should promote democratic values.
Learning should be activity-based.
Teacher should organize meaningful experiences.
Teachers should respect learners’ interests.
Teacher acts as a guide, not dictator.
Education should prepare students for social life.
Method of Teaching
Learning by doing
Project method
Example
Teaching science through experiments and projects.
6. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712–1778)
Concept of Teaching
Rousseau believed education should follow the natural development of the child.
Role of Teacher
Teacher should be an observer and protector.
Teachers must avoid forcing knowledge.
Teaching should respect natural growth stages.
Teachers should reduce external interference.
Learning should occur through direct experience.
Teacher should protect the child from harmful influences.
Emphasis on freedom and individuality.
Teacher should guide indirectly.
Avoid moral preaching.
Allow child to learn from nature and consequences.
Method of Teaching
Natural method
Learning through experiences
Example
Letting a child learn about heat by safe real-life observation.
7. Plato (427–347 BC)
Concept of Teaching
Plato believed education aims at moral and intellectual development.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a moral guide.
Teaching should develop reason and wisdom.
Teachers must identify learners’ abilities.
Education should serve social justice.
Teacher must train future rulers and citizens.
Emphasis on discipline and ethics.
Teaching should be systematic.
Teachers must shape ideal citizens.
Education should promote truth.
Teachers serve the state.
Method of Teaching
Dialectic method (question-answer)
Example
Teaching philosophy through discussion and reasoning.
8. Johann Friedrich Herbart (1776–1841)
Concept of Teaching
Herbart emphasized systematic and structured teaching.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a planner and organizer.
Teaching must follow psychological principles.
Teachers should prepare students mentally.
Teacher controls the teaching process.
Emphasis on moral education.
Teacher ensures clarity of concep
UNIT–1: CONCEPT OF TEACHING AND TEACHING PROFESSION
1. Meaning and Concept of Teaching
Teaching is a planned, systematic, and purposeful process aimed at bringing about desirable changes in learners’ behaviour.
Teaching involves three essential elements: teacher, learner, and subject matter. The teacher organizes content and learning experiences in such a way that students can understand, apply, and internalize knowledge.
Teaching is not limited to the transfer of information; rather, it focuses on guiding, motivating, and facilitating learning. It helps learners develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and morally.
Modern teaching emphasizes learner-centered approaches, where students actively participate in the learning process. Teaching also helps in developing critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving ability, and values.
Thus, teaching is both an art, requiring skill and creativity, and a science, based on principles and methods.
Example: A teacher encouraging discussion and questioning while teaching social science concepts.
2. Teaching Profession
Teaching as a profession refers to an organized and socially recognized occupation that requires specialized knowledge, professional training, and ethical commitment.
The teaching profession aims at shaping future citizens and contributing to national development. Teachers play a crucial role in transmitting knowledge, culture, values, and skills from one generation to another.
It demands continuous professional development, dedication, and accountability. Teaching is service-oriented and places greater emphasis on social responsibility rather than monetary gain.
Teachers are expected to follow professional ethics, maintain discipline, and act as role models for learners.
Example: Professionally trained teachers following curricular guidelines prescribed by educational boards.
3. Teacher as a Pedagogue
A pedagogue is a teacher who possesses a deep understanding of teaching–learning processes, child psychology, and pedagogical principles.
The teacher as a pedagogue designs instruction according to the developmental level, interests, and abilities of learners. Such a teacher focuses on conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization.
Pedagogues use appropriate teaching strategies, teaching aids, and assessment techniques to ensure effective learning.
They promote inclusive education, addressing the needs of diverse learners, including slow learners and gifted students.
Example: A teacher using experiments and demonstrations to teach scientific concepts.
4. Teacher as a Facilitator
As a facilitator, the teacher guides and supports learners instead of dominating the classroom.
The teacher creates a positive, democratic, and interactive learning environment where students feel free to express their ideas and opinions.
Facilitators encourage active learning, group work, cooperation, and independent thinking. They help students discover knowledge on their own.
The role of the teacher shifts from being a knowledge giver to a mentor and motivator.
Example: A teacher organizing group activities and discussions instead of continuous lecturing.
5. Teacher as a Reflective Practitioner
A reflective practitioner is a teacher who critically analyzes his or her own teaching practices to improve effectiveness.
Reflection involves thinking about classroom experiences, teaching strategies, student responses, and learning outcomes.
Through reflection, teachers identify their strengths and weaknesses and modify their teaching methods accordingly.
Reflective practice leads to continuous professional growth and innovation in teaching.
Example: A teacher revising lesson plans after observing poor student understanding.
6. Teaching as a Profession: Characteristics
Teaching possesses all the essential characteristics of a profession:
It requires specialized training and qualifications.
It follows professional ethics and standards.
It involves social responsibility and service.
It requires continuous learning and updating of skills.
Teachers are accountable for their professional actions.
Teaching is recognized by society as a profession that contributes significantly to human development.
Example: Teachers attending refresher courses and training programs.
7. Teacher Autonomy and Accountability
Teacher autonomy refers to the freedom given to teachers to plan lessons, choose teaching methods, and use instructional strategies.
Autonomy promotes creativity, innovation, and professional satisfaction. However, autonomy must be balanced with accountability.
Accountability means teachers are responsible for students’ learning outcomes, discipline, and overall development.
Teachers are accountable to students, parents, institutions, and society.
Example: A teacher selecting teaching strategies but ensuring syllabus completion and learning outcomes.
8. Status of Teachers in India
In India, teachers traditionally enjoyed high social status and respect. They were regarded as “Gurus” and guides of life.
Teachers played an important role in moral, spiritual, and intellectual development of learners.
Although social respect remains, changes in economic conditions and educational systems have affected their status.
Government policies aim to restore the dignity and professional recognition of teachers.
Example: Reverence for teachers in the ancient Gurukul system.
9. Changing Role of Teachers and Need for Change
The role of teachers has changed due to globalization, technological advancement, and educational reforms.
Teachers are no longer mere transmitters of knowledge; they are facilitators, mentors, counselors, and innovators.
They must adapt to digital tools, inclusive classrooms, and learner-centered approaches.
The National Education Policy (NEP 2020) emphasizes experiential learning and competency-based education, increasing the need for change.
Example: Teachers using smart classrooms and online platforms.
10. Personal Qualities of Teachers
Personal qualities determine the effectiveness of a teacher. These include:
Emotional stability
Patience and tolerance
Empathy and compassion
Integrity and honesty
Adaptability and creativity
These qualities help teachers maintain positive relationships with students and create a supportive learning environment.
Example: A teacher handling classroom conflicts calmly and fairly.
11. Professional Qualities, Competency, and Skills
Professional qualities include subject mastery, pedagogical competence, communication skills, and classroom management.
Teachers must possess assessment skills, ICT competence, problem-solving ability, and decision-making skills.
Professional competence ensures effective teaching and improved learning outcomes.
Example: A teacher using multiple assessment tools to evaluate students.
12. Code of Conduct and Professional Ethics
The code of conduct guides teachers’ professional behavior. It includes:
Commitment to learners’ welfare
Fair and unbiased assessment
Respect for dignity and diversity
Confidentiality and honesty
Respect for colleagues and institutions
Professional ethics ensure trust, discipline, and integrity in the teaching profession.
Example: Fair grading without favoritism.
13. Teacher Empowerment and Motivation: Issues and Concerns
Teacher empowerment involves providing autonomy, recognition, training, and supportive work conditions.
Major issues include heavy workload, limited promotion opportunities, stress, lack of resources, and inadequate motivation.
Motivated teachers perform better and contribute to quality education.
Empowerment can be achieved through professional development, incentives, and participative decision-making.
Example: Motivation through workshops and leadership roles.
WESTERN AND INDIAN THINKERS ON TEACHING AND TEACHER
Education thinkers have deeply influenced the concept of teaching, role of teacher, methods of instruction, and aims of education. Their ideas continue to shape modern educational practices.
A. INDIAN THINKERS
1. Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948)
Concept of Teaching
Gandhi viewed teaching as a moral, social, and productive activity. According to him, education should develop head, heart, and hand.
Role of Teacher
The teacher is a moral guide and social reformer.
Teachers should lead a simple and disciplined life.
The teacher must connect education with real-life activities.
Teachers should promote self-reliance among learners.
They must cultivate truth, non-violence, and discipline.
Teachers should respect individual differences.
Teaching should be based on activity and experience.
Teachers should use the mother tongue as the medium of instruction.
The teacher must develop national character.
Teachers must serve society selflessly.
Method of Teaching
Learning through productive work (Nai Talim).
Correlation of theory and practice.
Example
Teaching mathematics through spinning, weaving, or farming activities.
2. Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941)
Concept of Teaching
Tagore believed teaching should be natural, joyful, and creative, not rigid or mechanical.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a friend, philosopher, and guide.
Teachers must respect the freedom of the child.
They should nurture creativity and imagination.
Teachers should avoid rote learning and punishment.
Teaching must be in harmony with nature.
Teachers should encourage self-expression.
Teacher should create an aesthetic learning environment.
Education should promote internationalism and human values.
Teachers should recognize each child’s unique potential.
Teachers must inspire a love for learning.
Method of Teaching
Learning through art, music, drama, and nature.
Open classrooms.
Example
Teaching poetry through music and nature walks.
3. Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902)
Concept of Teaching
Vivekananda believed education is the manifestation of perfection already present in man.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a character builder.
Teacher must awaken inner strength and confidence.
Teachers should practice self-control and purity.
Teaching should inspire faith in oneself.
Teachers must act as role models.
Emphasis on man-making education.
Teachers should encourage fearlessness and courage.
Teacher must respect students’ dignity.
Education should be value-oriented.
Teachers should serve humanity.
Method of Teaching
Teaching through inspiration and personal example.
Example
Teacher motivating students to develop leadership and moral courage.
4. Sri Aurobindo (1872–1950)
Concept of Teaching
Aurobindo advocated Integral Education, focusing on total development of personality.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a guide and helper, not an instructor.
Teachers should help learners discover inner potential.
Teachers must respect natural growth.
Education should be child-centered.
Teachers should encourage self-learning.
Emphasis on spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional growth.
Teachers should not impose knowledge.
Learning should be self-directed.
Teachers must create a supportive environment.
Teachers should nurture inner discipline.
Method of Teaching
Learning through self-discovery and reflection
Example
Allowing students to explore topics independently under guidance.
B. WESTERN THINKERS
5. John Dewey (1859–1952)
Concept of Teachings
Dewey viewed teaching as a social and experiential process.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a facilitator of learning.
Teaching should be based on experience.
Teachers must connect school learning with real life.
Teacher should encourage problem-solving.
Teachers should promote democratic values.
Learning should be activity-based.
Teacher should organize meaningful experiences.
Teachers should respect learners’ interests.
Teacher acts as a guide, not dictator.
Education should prepare students for social life.
Method of Teaching
Learning by doing
Project method
Example
Teaching science through experiments and projects.
6. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712–1778)
Concept of Teaching
Rousseau believed education should follow the natural development of the child.
Role of Teacher
Teacher should be an observer and protector.
Teachers must avoid forcing knowledge.
Teaching should respect natural growth stages.
Teachers should reduce external interference.
Learning should occur through direct experience.
Teacher should protect the child from harmful influences.
Emphasis on freedom and individuality.
Teacher should guide indirectly.
Avoid moral preaching.
Allow child to learn from nature and consequences.
Method of Teaching
Natural method
Learning through experiences
Example
Letting a child learn about heat by safe real-life observation.
7. Plato (427–347 BC)
Concept of Teaching
Plato believed education aims at moral and intellectual development.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a moral guide.
Teaching should develop reason and wisdom.
Teachers must identify learners’ abilities.
Education should serve social justice.
Teacher must train future rulers and citizens.
Emphasis on discipline and ethics.
Teaching should be systematic.
Teachers must shape ideal citizens.
Education should promote truth.
Teachers serve the state.
Method of Teaching
Dialectic method (question-answer)
Example
Teaching philosophy through discussion and reasoning.
8. Johann Friedrich Herbart (1776–1841)
Concept of Teaching
Herbart emphasized systematic and structured teaching.
Role of Teacher
Teacher is a planner and organizer.
Teaching must follow psychological principles.
Teachers should prepare students mentally.
Teacher controls the teaching process.
Emphasis on moral education.
Teacher ensures clarity of concep
ts.
Teaching should be well-sequenced.
Teacher maintains discipline.
Learning must be reinforced.
Teacher evaluates learning continuously.
Method of Teaching
Herbartian steps: Preparation, Presentation, Association, Generalization, Application.
Example
Teaching history using a step-by-step structured lesson.ts.
Teaching should be well-sequenced.
Teacher maintains discipline.
Learning must be reinforced.
Teacher evaluates learning continuously.
Method of Teaching
Herbartian steps: Preparation, Presentation, Association, Generalization, Application.
Example
Teaching history using a step-by-step structured lesson.
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