This book explores how teaching can be framed as craftsmanship, focusing on the pursuit of teaching excellence informed by five pedagogical principles. It may interest teachers at all levels and stages of their careers.
An ethic of excellence: building a culture of craftsmanship with students
Synopsis
Drawing from his own experience as an experienced classroom teacher, in this book Ron Berger outlines a vision for educational reform that transcends standards, curriculum, and instructional strategies.
Berger argues for a paradigm shift, advocating a holistic embrace of an ‘ethic of excellence’. Using his time as a master carpenter, as well as a teacher, Berger is argues for a repositioning of teaching as a craft, and describing what is possible when teachers, pupils, and parents commit to nothing less than the best.
He identifies five pedagogical principles that support the creation of excellence: assigning work with purpose; studying examples of excellence; building a culture of critique; perfecting through multiple revisions; and providing opportunities for public presentation.