Teachers, Teacher Education, and Professional Development
Teacher Education Specific to Reading
For teachers in public schools, teacher education in Dubai follows the national model provided by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education. Teachers in public schools must complete an average of four years of university level study at an education college or a specialist college. Studies in education colleges are largely pedagogical; therefore, graduates may only teach Grades 1 to 6.
The qualifications and conditions for teaching in public schools differ depending on whether the candidate is a UAE national or an expatriate. While expatriate candidates should be under age 40 and must have at least two years of teaching experience, the age criterion for candidates who are UAE nationals is subject to the Civil Service Bureau’s rules and regulations. Further, UAE nationals receive priority in job placement and are not restricted by a minimum grade point average, while expatriates without an education diploma or degree must have an average of at least a “C.” Holders of the International Computer Driving License (ICDL) certificate and/or a certificate in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) also receive priority in job placement.
Requirements for Ongoing Professional Development in Reading for Teachers
Professional development requirements for reading teachers vary depending on which curriculum is used by the school. Private and public schools that invest in ongoing professional development secure higher rates of student achievement in all communication skills.