1 1 THE STATE OF PRE-SERVICE TEACHER EDUCATION IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION Maria Northcote University of Newcastle Cher Ping Lim Edith Cowan University Abstract This chapter examines current and past contexts of teacher education in the Asia-Pacific region. By focusing on how partnerships between major stakeholders can assist the development of future teachers, the issue of globalisation is considered at both a local and an international perspective. A series of case studies is presented to illustrate recent trends in teacher education, especially in terms of how these institutions combine components such as curriculum, assessment, professional experience (practicum), teacher educators, and learning and teaching strategies. These case studies illustrate how the ideas and practices associated with effective teaching have developed to a point where the process of teacher education is one that requires high levels of connection, understanding and negotiation between all levels of society. The chapter concludes by identifying some gaps that appear to have formed within the pre-service teacher education landscape and outlines some recommendations for addressing these gaps. Introduction In the context of rapid technological and economic developments globally, there is a perception that schools in the Asia-Pacific region should prepare students who are adaptable to change, who are creative and innovative, who are able to apply knowledge and solve problems with confidence. It follows that a major educational challenge for nations is to prepare teachers who can produce these desired student attributes, and teachers who are open to new ideas, new practices and technologies. One line of thought is that such teachers need to become mediators and knowledge brokers in order to provide guidance, strategic support, and assistance to help students to assume responsibilities for their own learning (Cochran-Smith & Zeichner, 2005).