Preservice Second-Career Teachers in a Blended Online-Residential Preparation Program: Profiling Characteristics and Motivations
Abstract
This study examines preservice second-career teachers (SCTs), their motivations for switching careers, and their perceptions of the profession. Participants were graduate students in a blended online-residential Master of Arts in Teaching program (N=311). Profiles, characteristics, motivations, and perceptions were explored using the FIT-Choice (Factors Influencing Teaching Choice) Scale validated by Watt and Richardson (2007). The FIT-Choice Scale determines the degree of influence for a variety of motivations from individuals choosing teaching as a career. Follow-up focus groups with 32 of the participants elicited rich qualitative data to elaborate on rating scale responses. Results provide a profile of SCTs and implications for school administrators as they hire, induct, and supervise SCTs whose teacher preparation was conducted in a predominantly online setting.Suggested Citation
Samuel J. Smith and John J. Pantana. "Preservice Second-Career Teachers in a Blended Online-Residential Preparation Program: Profiling Characteristics and Motivations" Virginia Educational Research Association. Charlottesville, VA. Sep. 2009.
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/samuel_smith/21
Second Career Teachers VERA 090911.doc (246 kB)
Paper distributed with the accompanying PowerPoint at the Charlotesville, VA, 2009, Conference of the Virginia Educational Research Association (VERA).
Paper distributed with the accompanying PowerPoint at the Charlotesville, VA, 2009, Conference of the Virginia Educational Research Association (VERA).