Abstract:
Area of 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 of 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 of the Study
The data were collected from randomly selected sample of 100 graduate teachers in
western province by using a structured questionnaire, which consisted of 47 statements
with a 5 point Likert scale. The data analysis included the univariate and bivariate
analyses.
Findings of the Study
According to the empirical evidence of this study, it is found that perceived teaching
ability, intrinsic value, job security, time for family, shape the future of children, enhance
social equity, make social contribution, work with children, prior teaching and learning
experience have high influence on graduates’ choice of 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 of 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.
