Overcoming the odds: Exploring barriers and motivations for male trainee primary teachers. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pollitt, Katie; Oldfield, Jeremy
• Is Part Of: Teaching and teacher education. Volume 62(2017)
• Page Start: 30
• Page End: 36
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Primary teachers -- Male -- Motivations -- Resilience; Teaching -- Periodicals; Teachers -- Training of -- Periodicals; Enseignement -- Périodiques; Enseignants -- Formation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 371.10205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tate.2016.11.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0742-051X

Abstract

Abstract: The study investigated male primary school trainee teachers' barriers and motivations for their profession. Six male trainee primary school teachers were interviewed and data were analysed thematically. Three themes arose relating to potential barriers; physical contact; experiencing negative outsider perceptions; and working within a female orientated environment. Three themes demonstrated that barriers could be overcome if participants perceived the profession as a constructive career; had positive experiences of working in a supportive environment; and were seen as effective role models. Primary teacher training courses should not only aim to reduce barriers but also highlight the positive aspects that enhance motivation. Highlights: Male trainee primary teachers experience barriers to the profession. Barriers faced by male trainee primary teachers can be overcome. Seeing teaching as a positive career choice increases resilience.