Big moves to improve the quality of teacher education in China

Abstract

Purpose

This article aims to describe and discuss four major innovations to improve the quality of teacher education including preparation programs and professional development programs in recent years in China. The four major innovations include establishing the National Curriculum Standards for Teacher Education (NCSTE) and the National Teacher Certification Examination; implementing the “double development plan” to reform clinical practice; launching the “National Training Plan” to develop in‐service teachers; and consolidating the career ladder for teachers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a review of the government documents and current literature.

Findings

The author argues that the four major innovations reflect the central trends to reform teacher education both in China and the USA – increased standards and accreditation, more clinical experiences in preparation, increased use of technology in teacher professional development, and more accountability and incentive for teachers.

Originality/value

When the world is faced with the globalized economy, cultural exchange and social equity issues, discussions about the recent innovations of China's teacher education will shed light on our understanding of better approaches to improve teacher quality that no doubt connect tradition and local practices with global convergence.

Citation

Han, X. (2012), "Big moves to improve the quality of teacher education in China", On the Horizon, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 324-335. https://doi.org/10.1108/10748121211272461