AN EXAMINATION OF “WASH-OUT” AND WORKPLACE CONDITIONS OF BEGINNING PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS

Authors

  • Bonnie Tjeerdsma Blankenship
  • Margaret M. Coleman

Abstract

The purposes of this study were to: (1) determine the extent of wash-out in two beginning physical education teachers; and (2) determine the workplace conditions these novice teachers experienced that may have influenced the extent of wash-out for them. The interactive factors influencing workplace conditions for physical education teachers outlined by Lawson (1989) provided the framework by which to examine wash-out in these teachers. Results showed that these teachers experienced wash-out from preservice to their induction years in several areas, but actually showed improvement in other areas. Factors that may have contributed to wash-out included a lack of facilities and equipment in the start of their first year of teaching, lack of prestige and respect for physical education, a particular subculture of students, and the teachers’ desire for student acceptance and enthusiasm. Workplace conditions that may have inhibited wash-out were being able to team teach with someone from the same PETE program, a new gym and equipment toward the end of their first teaching year, support from their principal, perceived control over content and teaching methods, and being proactive in soliciting assistance.?

Published

2009-04-26

Issue

Section

Articles