Presenting the views of national and international experts in initial teacher education, this edited collection is set to become a significant text for those engaged with programme provision and reform. Themes span policy trends and system change, the theory/practice dynamic, ideology and values in teacher education, language teaching and learning, and student voice in programme reform and transformation.

The publication is characterised by critical engagement with policy issues and deep understanding of the conceptual underpinnings of initial teacher education. The inclusion of models of exemplary practice – premised on a diverse range of innovative research and programme development projects – will prove valuable to those involved in preparing students for classroom life. This work extends theoretical understanding of teacher education, highlights areas in need of further research, and should stimulate debate on the future direction of the field.

The collection originates in papers presented at a conference on reform in initial teacher education organised by St. Patrick’s College, Dublin. It includes contributions from internationally renowned scholars such as Marilyn Cochran-Smith, John Furlong, Fred A.J. Korthagen and James G. Deegan.