Key concepts
What is the core focus of Freeman's reconceptualization of language teacher education ?
The knowledge-base of language teaching as dynamic and practice-based.
In traditional views, how is the knowledge base of teaching typically constructed?
Answer: As a fixed body of content that teachers must learn and apply.
What are the different forms of knowledge discussed by Freeman
Theoretical knowledge, practical knowledge, and context-specific knowledge.
What does the domain “Teacher as Learner” emphasize in language teacher education?
It emphasizes that teachers are also learners, continuously developing their knowledge through experience and reflection.
What does Freeman mean by “professional self-definition” in teaching?
How teachers see and define themselves as professionals, which influences their teaching approach.
According to Freeman, what type of knowledge is central to effective teaching?
Practical knowledge derived from experience and reflection.
How does the reconceptualized view of teacher education differ from traditional one ?
It focuses on teachers generating knowledge through experience rather than receiving it passively.
How does Freeman differentiate between theoretical and practical knowledge?
Theoretical knowledge is learned in formal education, while practical knowledge is developed through experience in the classroom.
How does viewing the teacher as a learner shift the traditional model of teacher education?
It shifts the focus from simply transmitting knowledge to encouraging teachers to construct their own knowledge through practice.
How does a teacher’s self-definition affect their teaching style?
It shapes their decisions, interactions with students, and classroom management strategies
How does Freeman view the relationship between teaching and knowledge?
Teaching creates knowledge through interaction, not just applying existing knowledge.
What is the primary limitation of the traditional knowledge base model, according to Freeman?
It overlooks the interactive and evolving nature of teaching.
How can teacher education programs help teachers balance theory and practice?
By integrating theory with real-world teaching practice and fostering reflective activities.
What role does reflection play in the “Teacher as Learner” domain?
Reflection helps teachers critically analyze their practice and experiences to improve and adapt their teaching methods.
How can teacher education programs support the development of professional self-definition?
By providing opportunities for reflection, mentorship, and discussions on teaching identity
What term does Freeman use to describe the shift from a static to a more fluid view of teacher knowledge?
Reconceptualization
In the traditional model, what is the role of the teacher?
To apply theoretical knowledge to practice
How does context-specific knowledge differ from theoretical knowledge?
Answer: Context-specific knowledge is created by teachers adapting to the unique needs of their classrooms, whereas theoretical knowledge is more general and abstract.
How does understanding social context help language teachers?
It helps them make their teaching more relevant and effective by considering students' cultural backgrounds and the societal norms around language use.
How important is professional self-definition compared to pedagogical skills and content knowledge?
It’s equally important because it shapes how teachers apply pedagogical skills and content knowledge in the classroom.
According to Freeman teachers need to master a specific body of knowledge.What alternative does he propose ?
Teachers should develop knowledge in action, through reflection and context-based practice.
In the reconceptualized view, how should teacher knowledge be assessed?
By examining how teachers reflect on and adapt their teaching practices, not just on their mastery of content.
Which form of knowledge is most critical for a teacher’s success, according to Freeman?
Answer: Practical and context-specific knowledge, as they allow teachers to navigate real classroom challenges effectively
What role does experimentation play in the pedagogical process?
Teachers experiment with various teaching techniques, reflecting on what works best in their particular context to improve student learning.
How does reconceptualizing the knowledge-base of language teacher education enhance the effectiveness and adaptability of teachers in diverse contexts?
By integrating the roles of teachers as learners, acknowledging the impact of social context, and promoting a flexible pedagogical process, this reconceptualization fosters a more reflective, responsive, and context-aware approach to teaching that ultimately improves student learning outcomes.