The Professional Educator: Roles, Responsibilities, and Ethical Considerations
The Professional Educator
Delimitation of Sphere of Action
Professional educators primarily focus on the basic enculturation of students and evaluating their educational progress within the school setting. This requires collaboration with families and the broader social context, with responsibilities shared among various stakeholders. Educators should not discriminate based on factors such as religious beliefs, leisure activities, artistic preferences, or sexual orientation.
Specific Preparation and Continuous Learning
The teaching profession requires a specific body of knowledge and specialized training. However, due to the dynamic nature of societal change and advancements in science and technology, ongoing professional development is crucial. Institutes for Science Education, Teacher’s Centers, and professional organizations offer opportunities for continuous learning. The LOGSE emphasizes that lifelong learning is both a right and an obligation for all educators.
Social Rights and Recognition
The LOGSE outlines the qualifications required for primary and secondary school teachers, emphasizing the importance of professional specialization. The social image of educators can be subject to criticism, influenced by factors such as their social origin, the high degree of feminization within the profession, and perceived levels of education. The relationship between teachers and learners is complex, and educators may face challenges in gaining support from parents and the wider community.
Autonomy of Action and Ethical Commitment
While educators have academic freedom, their autonomy is guided by ethical considerations and the educational goals outlined in the school’s project. Teachers need autonomy to adapt their strategies to individual student needs and circumstances. They are bound by ethical principles, including responsibility for their actions and adherence to the Educational Project. While an official code of ethics may not be universally established, proposals have been put forth by the government and professional organizations.
Tasks of the Educator
The educator’s tasks encompass a wide range of activities related to student learning and interaction with the school and its social environment. These activities can be grouped into four main categories:
1. Instructional Functions
- Curriculum planning, including adapting the official curriculum to meet student needs.
- Implementing planned activities, utilizing effective teaching strategies, resources, and motivational techniques.
- Facilitating interaction between teacher and student.
- Assessing student progress and adjusting the learning process as needed.
2. Tutorial Functions
- Providing individualized support and guidance to students, addressing both academic and personal concerns.
- Communicating with families to inform them of student progress and coordinate educational efforts.
3. Relations with the Environment
- Engaging with the broader social environment surrounding the school, including utilizing resources and opportunities offered by the community.
- Collaborating with administrative services, learning resource centers, and other educational entities.
4. Lifelong Learning and Educational Innovation
- Participating in continuous professional development activities within the school and through external agencies.
- Contributing to educational innovation and the improvement of teaching practices.