Criteria for Selection of Physical Education Teachers - Essay Example

Criteria for Selection of Physical Education Teachers Sue Hummel Wayne State University Abstract This research study identifies the hiring criteria used by School District Search Committees, which is critical for graduating Physical Education teachers, on how best to equip themselves to face a competitive job market after graduation. The reason for this study was the dearth of available information on hiring practices. The methodology used was the Survey and 66 selectors from three different Counties participated in it.

The representative sample consisted of 27 Principals, 14 Physical Education teachers and 25 Human resource Directors, drawn more or less equally from all the different school levels – elementary, middle and high school. Three different kinds of questionnaires were prepared. The first was a Likert-type questionnaire. Responses were assigned numerical values that assessed how important the respondent considered a particular attribute. The second questionnaire required the respondents to arrange the attributes they considered favorable in potential teacher candidates in order of rank and importance.

The third was an open ended questionnaire that allowed the respondents to answer questions in more detail, which provided some insight into the reasons for their choices. The Results of the Survey were as follows: (a) content competencies: The ability to teach physical education was considered most important, followed closely by the ability to teach inter personal skills. Teaching of swimming, dancing and outdoor education ranked lowest on the scale. (b) University education credentials: The most important criterion was a major in physical education, followed by graduation from a reputable institution and a grade point average of at least 3.

The least important criterion was the possession of a Master’s degree. ( c ) teaching skills: The ability to motivate and inspire students ranked as the most important quality in terms of teaching skills. Adopting a wide range of teaching styles and maintaining a good classroom plan were also considered very important. The least important factor was collaboration with parents and the Community. (c) Appearance and interpersonal skills: Enthusiasm and passion ranked highest on the list of favorable attributes, followed by the ability to speak well.

The least important factor was whether or not the candidate led an active lifestyle. The significant implication of this study is that the recruiters appeared to consider a Master’s degree less important while selecting candidates. The criteria that carried the most weight were enthusiasm and passion together with a degree in Physical Education.