Diversifying the Teaching Profession: Dimensions, Dilemmas and Directions for the Future

This edited volume is about diversifying the teaching profession. It is unique in its inclusion of multiple dimensions of diversity; its chapters focus on a wide range of under-represented groups, including those from lower socio-economic groups, Black and minority ethnic groups, migrants, the Travelling community, the Deaf community, the LGBTQI+ community and those of mature age.

The book includes contributions from Australia, England, Iceland, Portugal and Scotland, as well as a number of chapters from the Irish context, mostly emanating from projects funded under Ireland’s Higher Education Authority’s Programme for Access to Higher Education (PATH): Strand 1--Equity of Access to Initial Teacher Education.

The book also critically engages the rationale for diversifying the profession, arguing not only that representation still matters, but also that ultimately teacher diversity work needs to encompass system transformation to achieve a diverse, equitable and inclusive teaching profession.

Elaine Keane is Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor as well as Director of Doctoral Studies in the School of Education at the University of Galway.

Manuela Heinz is Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor as well as Head of Discipline of Education in the School of Education at the University of Galway.

Rory Mc Daid is Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor in Sociology of Education as well as Director of Research at Marino Institute of Education, Dublin.