Policy Brief – Degrees in Context: Asking the Right Questions about Preparing Skilled and Effective Teachers of Young Children

This brief aims to broaden the discussion about what it takes to develop and maintain effective instructional practices for preschool teachers.

By Marcy Whitebook and Sharon Ryan

NIEER Policy Brief (Issue 22, April 2011)

Summary

In this brief, authors Marcy Whitebook and Sharon Ryan argue that too much attention has been given to debating the baseline qualifications required of preschool teachers – AA vs. BA. They contend that it is just as necessary to take into account the nature of the education teachers receive en route to a degree, supports for ongoing learning, and the effects of the workplace environment on teaching practice.

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