Training Psychologists for the 21st Century

Abstract

What is the future of training in educational and school psychology as we move towards the end of the 20th century? Are we adequately preparing trainees for the rapidly changing demands that face them? Is there a common core of knowledge and skills in applied psychology which should be reflected in a generic pattern of training across the different disciplines in applied psychology? As links between countries become closer, particularly in Europe, how can we ensure that professional training is 'equivalent'? In this article we review the training and role of educational psychologists in England and Wales and suggest some options for the future. We believe that, despite the considerable and well-documented achievements in educational psychology research and practice, radical changes to the current system of training in the UK are needed in order to prevent educational psychology as a profession from becoming increasingly marginalized.