Teacher-researchers can take the results from their study and assess, reflect on, and

improve their teaching practice as a result of their findings (Dickson, 2005; Gilbert
& Smith, 2003; Hashey & Connors, 2003). This point presents both
professional and ethical backing for teacher research. A further point for conducting
teacher research is motivated by professionalism itself. Norsworthy (2003) explains that
teaching is a profession rather than just mere practice, and that a capacity for deep
reflection is an integral characteristic of a professional educator. With this conclusion
being drawn, research and reflection of one’s practice becomes an essential part of the
role of the educator. Another professional and ethical reason for teacher research is to
uphold the requirement presented in section 5a of the Graduating Teacher Standards
for teachers to “systematically and critically engage with evidence to reflect on and
refine their practice” (Education Council, 2015). By carrying out research an educator
begins the journey of critical engagement and reflection on their professional practice.
This point is reinforced by the reality that a teacher’s practice has obvious
consequences for the students that they teach, which in turn ushers in a professional
and ethical obligation to scrutinize one’s practice and its adequacy (Robinson, 2003;
Hall, 2001; Kelchtermans, 2009).

References:

Loughran, J. (2004). Student teacher as researcher: Accepting greater responsibility for

learning about teaching. Australian Journal of Education, 48(2), 212-220.

Dickson, V. (2005). The nature of student and teacher discourse in an elementary

classroom. Curriculum and Teaching Dialogue, 7(1&2), 109-122.

Norsworthy, B. (2003). Teaching - profession or practice? In D. Fraser & R.

Openshaw (Eds.), Informing our practice. Selections from the 2002 TEFANZ
Conference, Wellington, New Zealand (pp. 59-76). Palmerston North, New
Zealand: Kanuka Grove Press.

Education Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. (2015). Graduating teacher standards:

Aotearoa New Zealand. Retrieved 14 February 2018 from:
https://educationcouncil.org.nz/sites/default/files/gts-poster.pdf.

Robinson, V. M. J. (2003). Teachers as researchers: A professional necessity. SET, 1,

27-29.