“A whole new language and a new world”: Seconded Teachers’ Experiences in a Faculty of Education

Authors

  • Andrea Reupert Monash University
  • Jane Wilkinson Charles Sturt University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11575/ajer.v57i1.55453

Keywords:

seconded teachers, education faculty instructors

Abstract

It is common practice in university faculties of education to second teachers for limited periods. However, few recent studies have examined how secondees perceive themselves in this role, particularly in relation to the increased demands to assume research as well as teaching duties. Three seconded school personnel were interviewed to explore their experiences of secondment in a faculty of education in Canada. One had previously been a teacher, one an educational consultant, and the third a principal. Qualitative data analysis revealed (a) the differences between schools and faculty; (b) the benefits of secondment for secondees and the institution; (c) secondees’ identity as teachers; (d) secondees’ mixed feelings about research; and finally (e) the drawbacks and issues in being seconded. Recommendations for future secondments and research directions conclude the article.

Dans les facultés d'éducation à l'université, le détachement de personnel pour une période limitée constitue une pratique courante. Quelques études récentes portent sur la perception qu'ont les employés détachés de leur rôle, notamment en fonction de la hausse de demandes exigeant qu'ils accomplissent des tâches liées à la recherche en plus de celles relatives à l'enseignement. Nous avons interviewé trois membres du personnel scolaire détaché par rapport à leurs expériences de détachement dans une faculté de formation des enseignants au Canada. Parmi ces membres, il avait un ancien enseignant, un conseiller pédagogique et un directeur d'école. Une analyse qualitative des données a révélé: (a) les différences entre les écoles et le personnel; (b) les avantages du détachement pour les employés détachés et les institutions; (c) l'identité d'enseignant des employés détachés; (d) les sentiments ambivalents des employés détachés par rapport à la recherche; et finalement (e) les inconvénients et les enjeux liés au détachement. L'article conclut en présentant des recommandations qui visent les détachements et les orientations en recherche à l'avenir.

Author Biographies

Andrea Reupert, Monash University

Andrea Reupert is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education, at Monash University, Clayton, Australia. Her research interests focus on disadvantaged groups in the education and health systems.

Jane Wilkinson, Charles Sturt University

Jane Wilkinson is a senior lecturer in the School of Education, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga. Her research interests include the theory and practice of leadership and diversity in schools and universities.

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How to Cite

Reupert, A., & Wilkinson, J. (2011). “A whole new language and a new world”: Seconded Teachers’ Experiences in a Faculty of Education. Alberta Journal of Educational Research, 57(1), 28–42. https://doi.org/10.11575/ajer.v57i1.55453

Issue

Vol. 57 No. 1 (2011): Spring

Section

ARTICLES

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