A sociological analysis of the teaching profession encompasses more than a specific or singular aspect of teaching: rather it is concerned with teachers and their role in society. The study of sociology, and by extension sociological analysis, encompasses virtually all human activities. Sociology takes the broadest possible view of human activities by comparison with other social scientific disciplines. Analyzing and theorizing about the teaching profession involves some perusal of the social interactions formed by teachers as individuals, as part of a group, and as a part of the larger society and culture. How the various members of the specific population of teachers comport themselves is another area of interest.
For purposes of this analysis, the teaching profession will be viewed as a social group with a plurality of individuals in recurring interaction. Their interactions as a group appear to be controlled by common societal norms or by their profession and their differentiated roles most of the time. Differentiated roles could include but are not limited to the following: specific teaching areas such as mathematics, English, or science; geographic location; urban or suburban area; level of teaching within the educational system; and level of training of the teacher, including attainment of advanced degrees, teacher training, and years of experience.
Teachers are aware of their identity within their profession and the perception of their profession as a unit or group in society. Within the sociological perspective, their interactions are created and governed by the social norms established for their profession. The rules and models of conduct within society for teachers exert considerable control over their interactions. Teachers learn and accept their social norms like other members of society. The combination of folkways, social etiquette, rituals, and acceptable wardrobe is not embodied in legal statutes. ...