Understanding Teacher Motivation, Job Satisfaction, and Perceptions of Retention Among Arizona Teachers

• In Event: 41.083 - Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: 41.083-4 - Exploring Teacher Turnover

Abstract

This study describes the current status of teacher motivation, job satisfaction, and retention among teachers in Arizona. All PK-12 public and charter school teachers were asked to respond to a web-based survey about their overall job satisfaction, the motivational levels of school-and non-school-based factors and performance incentives, and perceptions of teacher retention. Survey responses were received from 9,053 teachers. Results included an overall job dissatisfaction rate of 26%, and several significant job satisfaction differences among demographic groups, rankings of ratings of the motivational levels for 18 job factors, 11 performance incentives, as well as reasons for leaving the profession, and enticements for remaining in the profession. The discussion includes suggestions for implementing recognition-based programs for teachers in schools and districts.

Author

• Craig Alan Mertler, Arizona State University - West