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Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

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Samuel James Smith

Selected Works

Publication Year

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Education

Preservice Second-Career Teachers In A Blended Online-Residential Preparation Program: Profiling Characteristics And Motivations, Samuel J. Smith, John J. Pantana Dec 2009

Preservice Second-Career Teachers In A Blended Online-Residential Preparation Program: Profiling Characteristics And Motivations, Samuel J. Smith, John J. Pantana

Samuel James Smith

This study examines preservice second-career teachers (SCTs), their motivations for switching careers, and their perceptions of the profession. Participants were graduate students in a blended online-residential Master of Arts in Teaching program (n=311). Profiles, characteristics, motivations, and perceptions were explored using the FIT-Choice (Factors Influencing Teaching Choice) Scale and focus groups.


Called To Teach: Interpreting The Phenomenon Of Calling As A Motivating Factor, Samuel J. Smith, Jared T. Bigham Aug 2008

Called To Teach: Interpreting The Phenomenon Of Calling As A Motivating Factor, Samuel J. Smith, Jared T. Bigham

Samuel James Smith

This hermeneutic phenomenological study examines the phenomenon of the calling to teach. Nine participants were interviewed, and the dialogue was analyzed for themes uncovered from participants’ interpreted experiences. The following themes were revealed: the calling experience as a process, esteem for the teaching profession as a calling, the use of spirituality for affirmation, and the direct impact of spirituality on career choice.