The Effective Teacher as a "Reflective Practitioner"

The development of lifelong and lifewide learning dimensions represents the key element for the promotion of a learning society through the access to new and improved basic skills for all, innovation in teaching and learning, guidance and counselling and the possibility of learning in structures closer to one’s home. These elements are essential to promote an active citizenship, to ensure a wider access to education and to promote participation in all spheres of social and economic life. The focus on teacher training and the need to develop appropriate competences are key elements promoting quality in lifelong learning courses. This kind of approach is essential for teachers in order to improve competences throughout one’s working life. Reflective practice suggests that experience alone is not sufficient to vouch for professional growth and teaching effectiveness; but experience view through reflection can be the catalyst for teacher development.