A Study of Teaching Aptitude Attitude and Values of Secondary School Teachers of Kashmir Valley

Abstract

Department of Education, Central University of Kashmir i newline Abstract newline newlineTeaching aptitude refers to the qualities, traits and skills pertaining to teaching which a person possesses as expected or acquires in the course of self-effort, reproduced in his tendency towards teaching and are useful to him in performing his job with precision (Srivastava, 1997). So, teaching aptitude is a specific ability, potentiality, interest, satisfaction and fitness in teaching profession. In teaching profession, attitude means a person s feelings, behaviours and commitment to the profession. If the teacher is committed and has constructive attitude then it is sure that his performance will be the effective. In the words of Richardson (2003), Education is a nation building movement. The quality of education depends upon ability and efficiency of teachers. If the teachers are well trained, motivated and committed with their profession learning will be enhanced. Teaching is a profession that can be described as an occupation which provides highly specialized intellectual services, representing a high degree of creative thought and contributing to the development of a wide range of research specialists. Teaching is an art which prepares a person for an effective profession, so that he can deliver best leadership styles to his/her subordinates. Attitude is a tendency to react in a particular manner towards the stimuli (Anastasi, 1957). A teacher has always been considered necessary for the preservation and development of the individual s life and civilization of mankind. The foundation of our social order rests upon aptitudes, ideals, attitudes and actions of the teacher who is considered as a model for his students. The teacher is a major negotiator in the process of education, disseminate information, use problem solving approach, create congenial atmosphere in the school, framing the timetable and taking the responsibility as a subject expert. The achievement of students in any programme depends on the effectiveness of teachers.