With the goal of providing future teachers current, truly useful information, the fourth edition of this classic text examines the philosophical and historical roots of education, its current structures and practices, and what's in store for the field—through an enlightening, interdisciplinary lens. It encourages students to contemplate the complexities of teaching, the diverse responsibilities of today's teachers, and the commitment of time and energy required for being successful. Material from sociology, economics, politics, public administration, finance, and law places education in a realistic context; while findings from psychology inform discussions of teaching, learning, and meeting the needs of at-risk students.