Being confident in front of the class and having fun at work – that is what all teachers wish for their professional career. Initial education and entering the profession can be the foundation to achieve this. "Teacher training can be successful, if we bring students together and promote their motivation early on in their studies," is Anna Hartl's takeaway message after three years of research. Her doctoral thesis is based on two scientific papers dealing with the motivation of young teachers in their first years after entering the teaching profession and the well-being and drop out intentions among student teachers.
The step from the lecture hall to the classroom is a major change for young teachers – a period marked by enthusiasm and new challenges. Anna Hartl has studied precisely this phase and concludes: Overall, the young teachers in the study seem to adapt well to the new situation and, in general, do not lose their motivation. Although changes in self-efficacy and enthusiasm are evident in the first two years after entering the profession, a reality shock does not emerge.
Especially in view of the current teacher shortage, Anna Hartl's doctoral thesis also addresses the question: What are the reasons for students dropping out and how can universities counteract? Already during their studies, social support is crucial because it has a positive effect on the students' well-being. Nevertheless, student teachers do experience phases of emotional exhaustion, according to the results of Anna Hartl's study. And even motivation is not self-perpetuating, but changes right up until entering the teaching profession.
Anna Hartl's research highlights the strengths and the weaknesses in the German teacher training system and reveals potential starting points for universities and trainers to improve and optimize study conditions.
More information regarding the individual studies:
- Starting out as a teacher – motivational high or reality shock?
- Teacher to be or not to be – preventing teacher shortage by providing good study conditions
We are happy for our dear colleague Anna Hartl and congratulate her on the successful completion of her doctorate!