Teaching in Further Education

Norman Lucas contends that FE is fundamentally divided and that the practices of FE teachers are best understood by appreciating the diversity of needs of FE students. He shows that the tensions between the divisions, diversity and growing regulation are at the hub of the many challenges facing policy makers and FE teachers. This book opens up a debate on three fundamental issues: the FE sector is too diverse and needs to be realigned to give institutions and teachers a clearer strategic and professional focus; the present 'industrial' national occupational standards should be abandoned in favour of professional standards akin to that of schoolteachers; the diversity, variety and specializations of FE teachers and the wide ranging needs of FE learners requires the practice of FE teachers to be redefined. This book is an invaluable addition to the largely under-researched area of further education and is essential reading for teachers, policy makers and students who need a broader perspective and understanding.