Equipping Teachers for Success in Rural Communities: Unveiling the Key Characteristics and Attributes of Thriving Rural Teachers

Article


Leach, T.. 2024. "Equipping Teachers for Success in Rural Communities: Unveiling the Key Characteristics and Attributes of Thriving Rural Teachers." Education Sciences. 14 (12), p. 596. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14121384
Article Title

Equipping Teachers for Success in Rural Communities: Unveiling the Key Characteristics and Attributes of Thriving Rural Teachers

ERA Journal ID200411
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsLeach, T.
EditorsBradbury, O.
Journal TitleEducation Sciences
Journal Citation14 (12), p. 596
Number of Pages20
Year2024
PublisherMDPI AG
ISSN2227-7102
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14121384
Web Address (URL)https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/14/12/1384
Abstract

Australian education faces persistent challenges in preparing and retaining teachers within rural contexts. This qualitative study examines the attributes of thriving rural teachers through focus group discussions with 103 rural educational leaders. Utilising a theoretical framework combining attribution theory and ecological systems perspectives, the study synthesised leaders’ perceptions of key dispositions and behaviours contributing to rural teachers’ success. Four interconnected dimensions emerged: being community, classroom, professionally and personally equipped. This study revealed that while individual teacher attributes are crucial, school support and community context significantly influence teacher success. The application of attribute theory further revealed that findings attributed teacher’s success to internal, stable, and controllable factors, suggesting that key traits could be developed through targeted professional development and experience. This study provides nuanced insights into ’rural readiness’, informing education policy decisions and practices, initial teacher education institutions, schools, and communities. The study emphasises the need for a holistic approach to teacher preparation and support that considers both individual and systemic factors.

Keywordsrural education; teacher attributes; teacher retention; rural schools; educational leadership
Article Publishing Charge (APC) FundingProject Funding
Contains Sensitive ContentDoes not contain sensitive content
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020399999. Other education not elsewhere classified
Byline AffiliationsSchool of Education
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