European Perspectives on Professional Development in Teacher Education

This collection focuses on the ways in which policy relating to professional development and professional learning in teacher education is changing across Europe. The chapters examine how policies change with time and with changes in personnel at various levels in the political or professional spectrum. It also highlights the continued diversity of the education systems of Europe, despite moves towards economic and social integration. A common theme running through the chapters is an understanding of the importance of professional development and professional learning of educators in the success and effective operation of the education systems of the countries concerned.

This book was originally published as a special issue of Professional Development in Education.

Ken Jones is Senior Consultant for CPD at Swansea Metropolitan UWTSD, UK. After teaching in London, he returned to Wales to become involved in the training and continuing education of teachers and headteachers. He is Co-Managing Editor of the journal Professional Development in Education and is former President of the International Professional Development Association (ipda). He has advised on aspects of Continuing Professional Development including the setting up of a National Framework for the Professional Development of Teachers and the pilot for the introduction of a Chartered Teacher scheme in Wales.

Jim O'Brien is Emeritus Professor of Leadership and Professional Learning at The University of Edinburgh, UK. He has authored, edited and contributed to several books and academic articles on school leadership and professional learning. At present co-Managing Editor of 'Professional Development in Education', he continues to research and teach in these areas and is currently a part-time Professor of Education at the University of Glasgow.