An Analysis of the Factors Influencing Job Satisfaction of Special Education Teachers

This study is an analysis of the five factors identified through the research literature on job satisfaction and special education teachers to identify which factor was the strongest predictor of job satisfaction. The factors identified as predictor variables and examined in this study include: Relationships with Administration, Relationships with Colleagues, Job Design, Student Caseload, and Professional Development. A logistical analysis was conducted using questions from the SASS nationwide survey of teachers that were categorized under each of the predictor variables listed above, as well as the dependent variable of Job Satisfaction. The analysis provided odds ratio values that demonstrated the strength of positive responses to survey questions in predicting a positive response to questions related to the dependent variable of Job Satisfaction. This study supported the findings of previous research, including the importance of relationships between special educators, administration, and colleagues. The analysis also provided conflicting results regarding professional development and raises questions regarding the implementation of mentoring programs for new special education teachers. Paperwork demands and additional responsibilities related to job design were not strong predictors of job satisfaction. The study demonstrated that the strongest predictor of job satisfaction fellm under the Student Caseload independent variable. Teachers who reported having the resources needed to effectively educate students with disabilities were significantly more likely to report positive responses to questions related to job satisfaction compared to all other variables. Implications, discussion, and limitations are identified in this study as well as recommendations for additional research. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]