Many of the characteristics typically associated with an occupation that is considered a profession are not commonly associated with teaching. These characteristics include: a clearly defined, codified, and accessible knowledge base; a structured, coherent induction experience monitored by oustanding practitioners; control of training, certification, and licensing of new entrants; and self-governance and self-policing authority. Making teaching a profession, professionalizing teaching, is seen by supporters of this effort to be a key component in improving teaching and learning in American schools. However, because of the nature of teaching and the context in which it is performed, there is disagreement about whether professionalization of teaching is the best way to improve teaching and the condition of teachers. The professional development school might contribute to professionalizing teaching by providing practical experience for beginning teachers, inspiring public confidence in teacher preparation, and providing a setting in which many of the features associated with traditional professions, but missing from teaching, can be developed, tested, refined, and disseminated. (IAH)