pt. 1. School and students. Why teach? ; What is a school and what is it for? ; Who are today's students in a diverse society? ; What social problems affect today's students? ; What is taught? -- pt. 2. Teachers ; What makes a teacher effective? ; What should teachers know about technology and its impact on schools? ; What are the ethical and legal issues facing teachers? -- pt. 3. Foundations and the future ; What are the philosophical foundations of American education? ; What is the history of America's struggle for educational opportunity? ; How are schools governed, influenced, and financed? ; How should education be reformed? -- pt. 4. The teaching profession ; What are your job options in education? ; What can the new teacher expect? ; What does it mean to be a professional?