Iowa Postsecondary Vocational-Technical Teacher Retention Study |
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| Authors: | Glenn L Hansen Robert E Kramer |
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| Institution: | University of Northern Iowa , USA |
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| Abstract: | Abstract The purpose of this study was to identify the reasons for the apparently high turnover rate among postsecondary vocational-technical teachers in Iowa's 15 postsecondary area schools. Two techniques were used in an attempt to identify the reasons for the turnover rate. One technique consisted of comparing background information via Iowa Professional School Employees Data Sheets, for all former and current teachers for the period 1971 through 1975. The second technique consisted of asking former instructors, by use of a mailed questionnaire, to relate their reasons for leaving the vocational-technical teaching program. The analysis of the data sheets failed to provide any conclusive insight into the reason for the turnover rate. Although the profile was of limited value, some tendencies were observed. Analysis of the data from the survey of current and former teachers revealed that: (a) former teachers showed greater dissatisfaction with preservice workshops than did current teachers; (b) former teachers tended to be less satisfied with external working conditions than did current teachers; (c) both current and former teachers found relationships with students to be the most rewarding aspects of their teaching experience; (d) both current and former teachers found interaction with administrators and supervisors to be the least rewarding aspect of their teaching experience. Finally, former teachers reported they left the program primarily because of problems they experienced with administrators and/or supervisors, and school policies. Current teachers were more likely to cite contract and salary problems as possible reasons for leaving the program. |
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