Second-Career Teachers' Career Change Patterns, Workplace Learning, and Intention to Stay in the Profession

• In Event: Lives of Teachers: Beginning, Navigating, and Looking Back

Abstract

The aim of our longitudinal mixed methods study was to analyse Swiss second career teachers’ career choice, workplace learning, competence development, and intention to stay in the profession. The sample is comprised of 403 participants in an alternative teacher training program with prior experience in the labour market. Analysis from narrative interviews revealed different motivational patterns that are influenced by external factors. The participants showed a substantial growth of competence during the job-integrated studies. Results from regression analysis revealed that personal passion and school climate had a strong impact on their commitment. Furthermore, they attributed a high amount of their competence development to coaching received from mentors and fellow teachers. However, they used trial-and-error rather than deep learning strategies.

Authors

• Christine Bieri Buschor, Zurich University of Teacher Education

• Esther Ursula Kamm, Pädagogische Hochschule Zug

• Mirjam Caroline Kocher, School of Education Zurich

• Andrea Keck Frei, Zurich University of Teacher Education