Social educators at schools in Andalusia: Profile and professional development

Abstract

This paper presents part of the results of a research project on the impact of the implementation and evolution of the professional profile of social educators at schools in Andalusia. The methodology used rests on an evaluative perspective. In this process, the documentary analysis, the questionnaires and the case studies have been combined by a mixed methodology. In this point, the results linked to the profile, functions and impact of the social educator are revealed, taking into account their professional development at different levels (legislative, educational and administrative) and in relation to the assessment that make other educational agents. These results are articulated around four sub-sections related to the categories defined in this study: the work of the educator, perceptions about and from the social educators, functions and professional performance and conditioning factors of their work and participation. Finally, some conclusions are shown in a proactive key that show ways to continue strengthening this necessary figure in the education system, betting on strengthening the functions that are perceived and manifested most necessary in the centers and identifying the main difficulties with which found his work.