The decision between elementary and secondary teaching careers
Date
1976
Authors
Groat, Jean Margaret
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Abstract
The purpose of the study was to determine the consideration given to details of the teaching occupation as practiced at the elementary and secondary levels, by those making a career decision.
Data were collected by means of a questionnaire completed by students and potential students who came to the Education Advising Centre at the University of Victoria during May and June, 1975. Factors used for weighting were selected on the basis of previous studies, personal observation and discussions with faculty members and practicing teachers at both levels. Respondents were asked to weight each factor by check-mark on a five-point scale. Analyses of data were undertaken to determine differences in the importance ascribed by respondents to the selected factors on the basis of level of teaching career chosen, whether the choice was made or still being made, or differences arising from certain experiences or relationships. Also studied was the significance of factors not considered important.
While few of the factors were considered differently by various groups to a significant degree, some differences were noted in Environment factors related to workload, and Career factors. Implications for further study of these factors were discussed.