Author: Gouranga Ghorai & Dr. Ramjee Singh Yadav
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/PP/030400004
Abstract: Teacher professionalism and competency are fundamental to the quality and effectiveness of education. In West Bengal, teachers work within a diverse educational environment that includes government, government-aided, private, and teacher education institutions. Changes in curriculum, educational technology, assessment practices, inclusive education, competency-based learning, and professional expectations have increased the need for teachers to continuously develop their professional knowledge and skills. The present article reviews the concepts of teacher professionalism and competency and examines their significance within the educational context of West Bengal. The article considers professional knowledge, pedagogical competence, ethical practice, communication, classroom management, assessment literacy, digital competency, reflective practice, professional commitment, collaboration, and continuous professional development as major dimensions of teacher competency. It also discusses institutional and contextual factors affecting teacher professionalism, including working conditions, professional autonomy, leadership, workload, professional development opportunities, and institutional support. Existing research suggests that teacher competency is closely connected with job satisfaction, professional development, institutional climate, and professional commitment. The article argues that strengthening teacher professionalism requires more than improving individual teacher skills; it requires supportive institutional environments and continuous opportunities for professional learning. The article concludes with suggestions for improving teacher professionalism and competency through systematic professional development, mentoring, research engagement, technology integration, collaborative learning, supportive leadership, and effective professional standards.
Keywords: Teacher Professionalism, Teacher Competency, Professional Development, Teacher Education, West Bengal, Teacher Educators, Professional Ethics, Teaching Effectiveness.
Page No: 24-36