Teacher retention in times of crisis : teacher trainees' perceptions (Hebrew)

This study examines teacher trainees' perceptions of teacher retention during times of crisis, using the ecological model as a theoretical framework. In the post-COVID era, the issue of teacher retention has become more acute than ever, with increasing rates of teacher attrition and a growing shortage of qualified personnel in education systems worldwide, including Israel.

The research was based on team simulations, debriefings, and reflective documentation conducted by 12 teacher trainees in the "Simulations and Case Analysis" course at the Faculty of Education, Bar-Ilan University. The data was analyzed using a qualitative three-stage coding method (Abductive Data Analyses) based on dimensions appearing in research literature and existing theories (Corbin & Straus, 2015), using the ecological model as a theoretical framework.

The findings indicate significant complexity in teacher trainees' perceptions of teacher retention during crisis periods. The interpersonal and organizational layers were perceived as most influential on teacher retention. Additionally, the findings emphasize the importance of a holistic view of the teacher's role, addressing personal, social, and professional aspects that operate simultaneously.

Based on the findings, a new model is proposed - the "Ecological Venn Diagram Model for Teacher Retention" (EVDMTR), which emphasizes the interactions between various factors affecting teacher retention. The model offers a new perspective for understanding the issue and provides a tool for future research and policy development.

The research concludes with practical recommendations, including developing training programs for teacher trainees and novice teachers, change of policies in the Ministry of Education, and raising the status of teachers in Israeli society. The need for further research examining this topic from additional perspectives is also highlighted.

Keywords: Teacher Retention, Crisis, Ecological Model, Teacher Trainees, Team Simulations.