The professional role of a teacher in the era of globalization on the example of Poland

Abstract

The globalization process and the social changes associated with it demand the introduction of permanent changes and reforms in the educational systems. The teacher’s new role is undisputable. It is the challenge of modern times and social needs. In their new role, teachers should support both the students and their parents. Teachers should act as guides for their students and direct them in their individual processes of development, taking into consideration the challenges of the globalization process. In my article, I would like to show how secondary school teachers are prepared for their work in Poland. I will also discuss the system of professional preparation, with particular attention given to secondary school teachers in Poland, to find an answer to the following question – does the system of teachers’ professional preparation really exist? In what way, if at all, does it take into account the specific character of work in a secondary school? I would also like to present the procedure of teachers’ professional advancement in Poland and its influence on the standards and quality of school work. My intention is to discuss the issue of professional preparation of secondary school teachers and to answer the question how such teachers should be prepared for work to be successful in coping with the challenges of modern school as well as the challenges from the society. Another question I hope to answer is what kind of support and from whom teachers should be given so that they are able to fulfill their duties, particularly those related to motivating students to self-study and unassisted work and to coping with life in a global society. What will be essential for my considerations is the notion of a good teacher in the context of a social function that is expected from teachers these days.