Contribution of a professional development programme to the quality and retention of teachers in an urban environment

Abstract

This study examined the effects of a professional development programme aimed at equipping teachers for the challenges of teaching in urban schools. The contribution of the programme to teacher quality and teacher retention was evaluated using a mixed research design in which both quantitative (N = 133) and qualitative (N = 42) approaches were used. The results showed a significant effect of the programme on teacher knowledge and self-efficacy. Furthermore, teachers greatly appreciated the programme and they perceived a positive impact on their competences, self-efficacy and professional orientation. The opportunity to share experiences within a network of teachers was considered the most valuable element of the programme.

Keywords:

• teacher education
• professional development
• beginning teachers
• teacher retention
• urban teaching

Funding

This work was supported by Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, Onderwijs Bewijs [grant number ODB08105].