The document discusses how the education profession has changed through the ages. It notes that teachers are required to have at least a bachelor's degree and state certification. While teaching is one of the most important professions, it does not receive proper recognition, especially with standardized tests holding teachers accountable. Technology has allowed teachers to reach more students and provide individualized learning. The knowledge age of the 21st century demands well-trained workers, requiring changes in skills taught like communications, problem solving, and teamwork.

1. Teaching Change Through the
Ages
Keisha G. Sievers

2. Overview
What sort of educational background is
required for the field of education
(elementary school teacher)?

Kindergarten and elementary school
teachers must have at least a bachelor’s
degree. In addition, public school teachers
must have a state-issued certification or
license. (Bureau of Labor & Statistics,
2012)

3. What value does society place on
this profession?
Primary school teaching is the single most important profession in the
world. Teachers pass on knowledge and values to children, prepare them
for further education and for working life and are main contributors to
good education. This most important profession however does not get the
recognition it deserves. Most teachers are held accountable for their
students’ performances on standardized tests, which can be frustrating.

4. What technological
advancements have played a role
in this profession?
Technology is making it possible for teachers to reach more students, allowing students the time they need to succeed, and providing our future
workforce with competent, knowledgeable employees.

5. What other forces have caused a
need for change in the education
profession?
The knowledge Age, the 21st century, has already brought historic changes to the world of work. The Knowledge Age demands a steady supply of well-trained
workers using brainpower and digital tools to apply well-honed knowledge skills to their daily work.
Trilling, B., & Fadel, C. (2009). 21st century skills: Learning for life in
our times. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

6. Changes through out the Ages
Trilling, B., & Fadel, C. (2009). 21st century skills: Learning for life in
our times. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

7. Important skills of the 21 st
Century

• Oral and written communications
• Critical thinking and problem solving
• Professionalism and work ethic
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Working in diverse teams
• Applying technology
• Leadership and project management
Trilling, B., & Fadel, C. (2009). 21st century skills: Learning for life in our times. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

8. References
Trilling, B., & Fadel, C. (2009). 21st century skills: Learning for life in
our times. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational
Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Kindergarten and Elementary
School Teachers,
on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-
library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm (visited July 24,
2012).