Date of Award

2013

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Education (MSEd)

Department

Curriculum & Instruction

First Advisor

Melanie Shoffner

Committee Chair

Melanie Shoffner

Committee Member 1

Tara Star Johnson

Committee Member 2

Janet Alsup

Abstract

Research shows that teacher retention is an issue of serious concern. Job dissatisfaction from personal and professional stressors is causing teachers at different experience levels to reevaluate their commitment to the classroom. Veteran teachers who complete their career are also evaluating whether or not teaching is worth what is invested. This project is grounded in narrative inquiry, in hopes of understanding the lives of female English language arts teachers. For the participants in this study, financial concerns and family commitments, issues of student accountability, and educational reform worry them equally. For all teachers, regardless of experience level, student apathy remains a source of discontent. The teachers in this study feel they are part of a profession that is being devalued by multiple sources inside and outside the classroom.

Share

COinS