What is Alternative Teacher Education

This chapter focuses on the phenomenal opportunity that is becoming and being an agriculture teacher. This chapter examines what it means to be a profession and evaluates agricultural education using seven criteria. This chapter also explains what it means to be a professionally prepared teacher. The traditional approach to teacher education is described, alternative pathways to certification are acknowledged, and the advantages and challenges posed by each approach are considered. The most important roles of a school-based agricultural education teacher are examined within the three-component model of agricultural education. The chapter also examines the characteristics of a good agriculture teacher, while emphasizing that it is important for agricultural education to be committed to becoming a diverse, equitable, and inclusive profession. Finally, the chapter summarizes key principles from codes of ethics and the Ag Teacher's Creed. These principles can guide teachers in making good behavioral choices.