Introduction to Education

Book Summary

So, you think you might want to be a teacher. But what does becoming—and being—a teacher really involve?

Introduction to Education: A Practical Guide for Future Educators provides a realistic and approachable introduction to teaching, with a particular focus on education in Florida. Written for future teachers, the book explores both the rewards of the profession and the realities that come with it.

Rather than simply describing educational theories and terminology, this book connects those ideas to the classrooms, schools, and decisions future teachers will actually encounter. Topics include the history and purpose of public education, characteristics of effective teachers, school governance and finance, educational law and ethics, challenges students bring with them to school, teacher evaluation, standards and assessment, curriculum and instructional planning, and the practical steps required to become a certified teacher in Florida.

The book also takes an open look at issues that future teachers often wonder about but introductory textbooks sometimes overlook, including teacher salaries, benefits, retirement, job security, and whether teaching makes sense as a long-term career.

Throughout the book, the goal is not to convince readers that they should become teachers. It is to help them understand the profession well enough to make that decision for themselves.

Teaching can be rewarding, challenging, frustrating, exhausting, and occasionally a little ridiculous. If you are considering becoming a teacher, it helps to know what you are getting into.