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Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Certificates & Degrees

This recent article by Malcolm Gladwell (Tipping Point, Blink, Outliers) discusses how, in theory, it is near impossible to determine who is going to be a good teacher. This obviously makes hiring teachers much more difficult. He likens it to NFL scouts looking at College level quarterbacks. Here too, because play in the NFL is a completely different game, it is hard to say whether a successful college quarterback will make it in the NFL.

I didn't love the article. There was way more football than there was teaching. As well, he doesn't really offer a concrete solution to this difficulty. However, I did like the fact that he argues that additional degrees won't necessarily make a better teacher, and therefore should not be required when schools look to hire.

Something to think about.

1 comment:

  1. I believe the author has neglected his 'Moneyball', everything can be quantified. Take a look at the good teachers, list their schools and qualities and while it may not be perfect, it will give you a guide.

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