Abstract

GUZMAN VALENZUELA, Carolina. Exemplary Teachers at Public Secondary Schools and Pedagogical Beliefs: Challenges and Proposals for Improving Teaching. RMIE [online]. 2013, vol.18, n.58, pp.871-892. ISSN 1405-6666.

This article presents a qualitative study that describes and analyzes beliefs regarding the teaching/learning processes of teachers considered exemplary in high-risk secondary schools in Valparaíso, Chile. Beliefs are unelaborated ideas that form part of teacher knowledge, that do not enjoy rational or scientific justification, and that influence teachers' interpretations of students and student learning, as well as their pedagogical practices. The results indicate that in spite of adverse conditions, these teachers recognize teaching as a challenging profession to which they dedicate their best efforts on a daily basis. On this foundation they construct and develop exemplary teaching that trusts student abilities and encourages students to become better individuals. The article concludes by proposing guidelines to improve the initial and ongoing training of teachers.

Keywords : teacher beliefs; teaching practice; secondary education; qualitative research; Chile.

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