Thread: Subject Specific Education

I am curious. Should a teacher who teaches a specific subject such as math, a foreign language, science classes, have a demonstrated ability in that subject and a record that includes specific classes in the field. A friend of mine became a Spanish language teacher and spoke no Spanish. She was assured that actually being able to speak or read and write Spanish wasn't critical. My algebra teacher, way back in high school, was really a coach and didn't speak algebra, either. Should an English teacher actually be required to write in English?

I've heard people argue, including the Spanish teacher, that once you learn to teach you can teach subjects you don't know.

What are your thoughts?

Originally Posted by PatrickT

I am curious. Should a teacher who teaches a specific subject such as math, a foreign language, science classes, have a demonstrated ability in that subject and a record that includes specific classes in the field. A friend of mine became a Spanish language teacher and spoke no Spanish. She was assured that actually being able to speak or read and write Spanish wasn't critical. My algebra teacher, way back in high school, was really a coach and didn't speak algebra, either. Should an English teacher actually be required to write in English?

I've heard people argue, including the Spanish teacher, that once you learn to teach you can teach subjects you don't know.

What are your thoughts?

IMO they need to have worked outside the comfort and safety of a school for several years and have been regarded as a master of their craft. In other words, they should posess experience in having applied their trade in the real work world of employment and teach only part time. After all, teaching in the USA is part time hours. that is how they do it in private schools in the USA, you know, where the elite and the wealthy send their kids, and where they have the best educators.