Demonstrating In-the-Moment Resilience: Early Career Science Teachers Embracing Challenges

• In Event: Research on Teacher Induction Paper Session

Abstract

Science teacher attrition is a growing problem in the United States (US). Yet, there are many teachers who stay and thrive in the profession, who persist and demonstrate resilience despite ongoing challenges and stressors with teaching. This study focuses on micro resilience, which is real-time resilience displayed by early-career science teachers (ECSTs) as they embrace and overcome challenges in science classrooms. Fourteen ECSTs from across the US were purposively selected to participate in this qualitative study. Data sources included observations of science classrooms and post-observation interviews. The analysis showed that classroom management was a major risk factor, while classroom policy and routines emerged as a major protective factor to the micro resilience of ECSTs.

Authors

• Adepeju Olufunke Prince, Kent State University

• Elizabeth Idowu Ayano, University of Georgia

• Shannon Lynne Navy, Kent State University