Approaches to considering the professional knowledge base of science teachers

Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to the remainder of the volume by setting subsequent chapters in a broader context. That context is an adaptation of Hargreaves (1998) conceptual framework for the consideration of the nature of teacher professional work. In common with essentially all commentators, Hargreaves notes that teachers' work is complex, difficult and demanding, and, he argues, requires teachers to engage in intellectual, emotional work, and work organization (the capacity to organize and control one's own work). © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.