The Professional Identity and Values of Teachers in School Culture

Abstract

Being a teacher in contemporary society entails new knowledge and skills but also a refined value system in the light of the needs of a new generation of students. The paper firstly discusses the professional identity of teachers in terms of knowledge and skills in planning, conducting and evaluating teaching, but also in (re–) interpreting one’s own values and experiences. Secondly, motivation for the job of a teacher is defined. It will depend on the quality of cooperation within the institution, i.e. on the quality of school culture. Lastly, the values of teachers and school culture are discussed. Values are defined as general and relatively permanent goals to which an individual aspires. Teachers are often unaware of their predominant values, still they serve as models of values and behaviour to their students. Values are developed and further shaped within school culture which should be open and inviting. All key concepts in the paper are mutually connected. The aim of the paper is to theoretically define and describe the values of teachers in school culture and their professional identity. The following key concepts are discussed and analyzed: identity, the professional identity of teachers, motivation for the teaching profession, values and school culture. Discussions on professional identity and values are key concepts in contemporary scientific research and can contribute to a better image of the teaching profession in society.