What Keeps Teachers Committed to the Profession? Teachers' Truths and Implications for Policy and Practice

• In Event: Teacher Recruitment and Retention in K–12 Schools

Abstract

This paper highlights how education policymakers and school leaders can play a pivotal role in fulfilling the professional development (PD) needs of teachers so that they are continually equipped and supported to meet learners’ needs. Decisions that are consequential in the lives of teachers must rely on evidence—truths about their learning and development grounded in rigorous research. Our study examines teachers’ PD needs across career stages defined by Sammons et al. (2007) to understand how to nurture teachers’ career-long PD needs. Our findings revealed distinct and differentiated PD needs by gender and years in service. It is envisaged that this study can help policymakers customise teacher PD to help retain teachers and sustain their commitment to the profession career-long.

Authors

• Ee Ling Low, Nanyang Technological University - National Institute of Education
  Presenting Author

• A.Lin Goodwin, Boston College
  Presenting Author

• Sao-Ee Goh, National Institute of Education - Nanyang Technological University
  Presenting Author

• Jocelyn Shi Yah TAN, Nanyang Technological University - National Institute of Education
  Presenting Author