Influences on Individuals to Enrol in Undergraduate Technology Teacher Education Programs in Australia

Abstract

Within the context of a wide-spread technology teacher shortage, this study focused on undergraduates enrolled in technology teacher education programs (TTEPs) in Australia. The aim of this study was to ascertain the basic demographics of the enrolled student population, and to examine factors that were linked to the decision of individuals in choosing to become technology teachers. The literature search identified useful Australian studies which gave an overview of recent TTEP enrolment trends in tertiary institutions. A questionnaire was constructed as part of the quantitative research design and then distributed to Australian universities that were offering TTEPs at the undergraduate level. From this data the demographics of the respondents were ascertained. To produce a causal model, path analysis was employed using a backward stepwise regression process to weight the dependencies of the model. The study found that enrolees in TTEPs represent a diverse group, with some universities having a distinct clientele profile. The study identified a "desire to teach" as the most positive influence on individuals' decision to enrol in a TTEP. The causal model indicated that it is fostering of hobbies and interests, and the climate, program and personnel of the secondary school that has the potential to influence individuals' decisions to become a technology teacher.