The threat to excellence in teaching : teacher attitudes to the promotion programme in Israel

Abstract

This study examines college teachers' attitudes in Israel in the light of the new Staff Promotion Programme(SPP). This Programme has been instituted to elevate the position of teachers by setting up criteria for promotion. Despite the expressed interest in elevating the status of teachers, this author contends that the Programme will undervalue teaching excellence. This article presents a review of pertinent research pertaining ta excellence in teaching, assessment methods and teacher attitudes ta rewarding research publications to the neglect of teaching excellence. Teachers interviewed and responding to a questionnaire responded similarly to research findings, indicating that teachers prefer ta be evaluated according to their teaching, particularly in teacher training institutions. Moreover, many recommend the adoption of programmes for improving their teaching methods.