Factors Affecting to Choose Teaching as the Career Path; An Investigation on Graduate Teachers in Western Province Schools in Sri Lanka

Abstract

AttachedArea o f the Study This study is mainly focused on identifying the factors affecting graduates who have chosen teaching as a career and what was their general perception on teaching as a profession. Problem o f the Study To investigate the main factors which were influenced to choose teaching as a career path among graduates ’ teachers in western province in Sri Lanka. Method o f the Study The data were collected from randomly selected sample o f 100 graduate teachers in western province by using a structured questionnaire, which consisted o f 47 statements with a 5 point Likert scale. The data analysis included the univariate and bivariate analyses. Findings o f the Study According to the empirical evidence o f this study, it is found that perceived teaching ability, intrinsic value, job security, time for family, shape the future o f children, enhance social equity, make social contribution, work with children, prior teaching and learning experience have high influence on graduates' choice o f teaching as a career and they perceived teaching as a noble profession which requires hard work along with great skills and high standards. As their perception, teaching career is has a well respected career and a high social status within the society. Conclusion o f the Study The identified factors which had higher influence on graduate teachers ’ career choice can be used to improve teacher recruitment and retention, reform teacher education and professional development and finding ways to enhance teaching effectiveness.