Ask AI: What is the role of SACE and Professionalism when teaching History.

The South African Council for Educators (SACE), like many professional education organizations throughout the world, promotes a high standard of professionalism in teaching. This includes history, along with other subjects. 1. Adherence to a Professional Code of Ethics: SACE, like teaching bodies in most countries, has a professional code of ethics. Teachers are obligated to adhere to this code, which often covers respect for individual difference and diversity, commitment to educating students to the best of their ability, and more. Teaching history should be no exception. Presenting different historical perspectives fairly and making the subject matter engaging for students would fall under this ethical responsibility. 2. Continuing Professional Development: SACE emphasizes lifelong learning and the need for teachers to regularly update their skills and knowledge. For history teachers, this can mean staying informed about research in the field of history, new teaching methodologies, incorporating technology into their teaching methods, etc. 3. Maintaining Standards: SACE acts as a regulatory body to maintain educational standards and has a system to register educators. This ensures that teachers, including those teaching history, meet basic qualifications and competencies. 4. Advocacy: Not least, as a representative of the profession, SACE develops policies and lobby on behalf of educators on issues that affect them directly. In terms of professionalism, history educators, like other teachers, are expected to be competent in their subject matter and to approach it in an unbiased, thoughtful and considerate manner. Professionalism also includes respecting students' individual differences and learning needs, creating a safe and effective learning environment, and working collaboratively with colleagues and parents. In the context of history, specifically, it could mean engaging with sensitive historical events or periods with caution, honesty, and respect for multiple perspectives. It also underscores the importance of teaching students to critically evaluate historical sources, and engaging them in complex dialogues about the implications and applications of historical knowledge in contemporary life.