Initial Teacher Education in Singapore and South Korea

초록

This chapter compares initial teacher education in Singapore and South Korea. The key features of teacher education in both countries are identified and critically discussed. It is noted that initial teacher education in Singapore is characterized by a rigorous selection of teachers, a values-based and learner-centred approach to initial teacher education, and a strong theory–practice nexus. In the case of Korea, initial teacher education is marked by a well-structured programme, the high standards set by the government, and a recent push for a learner-centred teacher education. When we compare initial teacher education in Singapore and Korea, it can be observed that teacher education is effective in both countries due to heavy state investment, recruitment of highly qualified applicants, systematic teacher preparation that underscores values development, and progressive teacher education approaches that have evolved to meet the needs of modern times. It is also observed that teacher education in both countries is underpinned by Confucian values that emphasize the high societal status of teachers and a strong collaborative culture. An ongoing challenge faced by both countries is to further develop teacher education in a post-pandemic world to meet the changing needs of students. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2022.

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