The authors conducted a phenomenological inquiry that described factors that influenced two novice and two experienced teachers’ decisions to remain in the teaching field. These teachers taught in both Title I and non-Title I elementary schools, and their teaching experiences ranged from four months to 38 years. Data for this research included individual interviews with each of the participants, and the authors utilized taxonomic and domain analysis. The experienced teachers indicated that the relationships with their students and teaching as a ‘calling’ were significant factors in the longevity of their careers. In schools nationwide, educators are leaving the classrooms due to the increased pressures related to standardized testing, detailed record-keeping requirements, and fidelity checks. Further research is needed to understand how to best support and mentor teachers.
Article
Influences of the heart: Novice and experienced teachers remaining in the field.
USF St. Petersburg campus Faculty Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2013
Disciplines
Abstract
Publisher
Routledge
Creative Commons License
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0
Citation Information
Bennett, S. V., Brown, J. Kirby, A., & Severson, B. (2013). Influences of the heart: Novice and experienced teachers remaining in the field. Teacher Development, 17(4), 562-576. doi: 10.1080/13664530.2013.849613
Citation only. Full-text article is available through licensed access provided by the publisher. Members of the USF System may access the full-text of the article through the authenticated link provided.