Traditional Versus Alternative Teacher Certification: Which Best Prepares Teachers for the Classroom?

Abstract

This review compares traditional and alternative teacher certification programs to determine which best prepares teachers for the classroom. The literature search was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar, Ebsco, ERIC, and JSTOR. Key terms used in the search included teacher preparation, traditional teacher certification, alternative teacher certification, and effective classroom instruction. The literature review provided inconclusive results. Some studies have shown that traditional teacher certification programs led to better student achievement, while others have shown that alternative programs did. Further studies could be conducted to determine the impact teacher certification has on students in different subjects, such as social studies or English, which were both underrepresented in the research. Future educators can use this review to help determine if traditional or alternative certification is right for them. Leaders and policymakers in the education field can use this review to adjust the expectations placed on teachers.