1. Entry Level Profile: Student Attitudes Toward the Teaching Profession.
- Author
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Bontempo, Barbara T. and Digman, Sally
- Abstract
Results are presented of a study describing an attitude profile of undergraduate students at entry level in a teacher preparation program at West Virginia University. The study sought to identify attitudes and levels of commitment with which young people enter preparation for the profession of teaching. Questions addressed are: (1) What is the level of commitment to the teaching profession after one semester in a preparation program? (2) What influenced the decision to choose teaching? (3) What attitudes about teaching do these students bring to the program? (4) What attitudes toward children/youth do they hold? and (5) What are their career goals? A survey was conducted with students enrolled in an "Introduction to Education" course in the Fall, 1983 and Spring 1984 semesters. A total of 356 responses were received. Statistical information on responses to specific questions is presented in tables. In an analysis of total responses, a profile emerged of young adults possessing the kinds of attitudes, motivation, and commitment to the teaching profession that is vital in creating learning environments in schools that are caring, open, and challanging. Implications are discussed for possible changes in emphasis in teacher education programs. (JD)
- Published
- 1985