Teachers and teacher assistants : building effective relationships
Date
2002
Authors
Thompson, Dawn M
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2002
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the conditions necessary for the development of effective relationships between teachers and teacher assistants. A sample of five teachers and five teacher assistants from a rural school jurisdiction in Alberta participated in the study. The primary method of data collection was interviewing. Data were analyzed thematically and findings presented systematically in order of importance. Key finds from teachers included the importance of communication, the necessity of establishing clear expectations for teacher assistants, the need for collaborative planning time for teacher/teacher assistant teams and the importance of training for both themselves and teacher assistants. Key findings from teacher assistants were not dissimilar and included the important of communication, the necessity of clear expectations and the importance of being seen as valuable members of the educational team. The results of this study have implications for all school authorities in which teacher and teacher assistants are increasingly expected to share responsibility for providing educational services for students.
Description
ix, 59 leaves ; 29 cm. --
Keywords
Teachers' assistants assistants , Teachers , Communication in education