Why Second-Career Professionals Choose to Teach and the Experiences That Shape Their Practice

• In Event: Roundtable Session 50
  In Roundtable Session: Research on Teacher Induction SIG Roundtables

Abstract

The fastest growing group in teacher training programs is second career teachers (Brooks & Hill, 2004). This paper examines the factors that influence second career pre-service teachers to become classroom teachers. This paper draws from existing research to examine the means in which second career pre-service teachers are being prepared, the implication of these practices and recommendations for teacher education preparation of second-career teachers. Formative, social and personal experiences can provide insight as to why second-career pre-service teachers are pursuing a career as an educator. Identifying factors that influence second-career pre-service teachers to enter the profession can be useful in determining the types of experiences second career teachers need throughout their induction program in preparation for today’s classrooms.

Author

• Patricia A. Dickenson, National University