Educators’ Perceptions of Teacher Continuity in Public Primary Schools in a British Overseas Territory

Date of Conferral

10-31-2023

Degree

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

School

Education

Advisor

Mary Kropiewnicki

Abstract

The problem that was addressed through this basic qualitative study is a shortage of qualified primary teachers in the target school system due to yearly teacher turnover. The purpose of this study was to explore primary teachers’ perceptions of motivators and challenges related to continuity in the target school system. Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory, which addresses how internal motivational factors and external hygiene factors underpin work attitudes and job satisfaction, served as the conceptual framework girding the study. The research questions were designed to explore how primary teachers in the target school system perceive motivators and challenges toward teacher continuity. Purposive sampling was used to identify 15 participants who were interviewed at the study site in a British Overseas Territory. Thematic data analysis was used to identify the themes of the study, which included effective school leadership, passion for the profession, nurturing environment, relations and connections, making differences, time, and flexibility as significant motivators. The themes that emerged as challenges were heavy workload, rapid changes and unrealistic expectations, inconsistent mentorship, limited opportunities, and student discipline. The motivators allowed the participants to buffer the challenges they experienced and sustain their continuity as teachers at the study site. The research findings are meant to increase stakeholders’ awareness to produce strategies and practices that promote continuity in the profession that can influence long-term, positive social change.

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