Teacher education in Germany: historical development, status, reforms and challenges.

Terhart E

Abstract

Compared to other countries, Germany has one of the most demanding systems of teacher education for all types of school teachers. This has not always been the case: the teaching profession, or rather the various teaching professions (types of teachers) developed during 19th and 20th century. Step by step an equal academic training and a scientifically based professional practice were established for all types of teachers. The basic structure of teacher education in Germany is presented, and important reforms and developments over the last two decades are discussed. In the final part, current challenges are pointed out: The constant fluctuations on the teacher labor market and the strong national regulations for the licensing of teachers with international qualifications to work in German schools.