Ralph Medema

Date of Award

4-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Graduate Education

First Advisor

Patricia C. Kornelis

Abstract

This action research project investigated the reasons for the current teacher shortage in the Federation of Protestant Reformed Christian Schools. The research was a descriptive survey study with parents, teachers, and students serving as respondents. Three surveys were designed to measure perspectives about teaching and motivations for both becoming and remaining teachers among members of Christian schools from a Reformed Christian background. The survey results indicated some correlation with previous research, especially concerning the financial aspects of teaching. The survey results also demonstrated some aspects that make the perspectives and motivations of Reformed Christians unique. Suggestions for strengthening the ability of Christian schools to attract and keep good teachers included promoting teaching as a calling, increasing salary schedules to be more in line with each community’s wage earners and other professionals, promoting support for teachers’ life balance, and building structures for teacher growth and community.

Comments

Action Research Project Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Education

Download

Share

COinS