PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF ELEMENTARY TEACHER EDUCATORS: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES

It is well realised that there is a need to institutionalise mechanisms for professional development of elementary teacher educators in our country. This is because the aim is to strengthen and further develop a cadre of professionals and researchers in elementary education. The present study was undertaken with a view to understand the issues and challenges that fall within the ambit of professional development of teacher educators. The sample consisted of sixty elementary teacher educators belonging to the District Institute of Education and Training (DIETs) across India as well as a select sample of educationists and other experts. The findings are based on their perceptions gathered on the basis of a questionnaire and focussed discussions on the theme. The needs, concerns and problems of elementary teacher educators have emerged. The findings also lend direction to the ways and means by which these concerns can be addressed.