Professor Sue Bennett has always appreciated the important role teachers play in society.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The head of the University of Wollongong's School of Education reckons more in society now appreciate teachers.
Like others in her field, the information and communication technologies in education expert believes the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential work of teachers, and the expertise they deploy in their profession.
"The shift to 'learning from home' during the COVID-19 pandemic has brought the work of teachers into Australian homes like never before," Prof Bennett said.
"From weekly learning plans and resources sent home via email or post, through to engagement in online video conferencing, teachers and schools have sought to meet the needs of their diverse communities.
A legacy of this period for many is a new-found appreciation for what teachers do to guide and support student learning.
- Professor Sue Bennett
"For families, this has been a new opportunity to take part in their children's education.
"Parents and carers have experienced what it means to support someone else's learning - as they endeavoured to explain a concept, supported a practical activity, motivated and coached.
"They have also had the satisfaction of witnessing breakthrough moments of understanding, together with the inevitable frustrations and challenges.
"A legacy of this period for many is a new-found appreciation for what teachers do to guide and support student learning, together with an increased capacity for families to support their children's education."
Professor John Fischetti from the University of Newcastle argues that "our future depends" on raising status of the teaching profession.
The NSW Council of Deans of Education president warns of worsening teacher shortages.
Prof Fischetti says the shortage is partly due to poor treatment of the teaching profession.
"We have a short 'post COVID-19' window to promote the incredible opportunity teaching provides and to encourage talented prospects that teaching is truly a noble profession. Our future depends on it," he said.