Benefits and Challenges with the Modular Model of Teacher Certification in Australia: Listening to Teachers’ Voices

Abstract

This paper examines teachers’ views about the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) Certification 2.0 Modular Model (CMM 2.0). The research reveals teachers’ voices and agency in relation to HALT certification. Participants in this study included HALT certified teachers, current HALT participants, and prospective participants. The semi-structured interviews conducted provide insights into the benefits and challenges associated with the CMM 2.0. Thematic coding and systematic analysis were applied to the data to arrive at the key findings. The research revealed that teachers believed that the modular approach was advantageous as it was flexible and provided professional recognition and development. Issues identified by the participants were the time, cost and workload involved, and the role of leadership and peer collaboration in certification. This study makes a contribution to knowledge about the nature and benefits of a modular approach, which can inform the design and implementation of certification in Australia and internationally.