What Factors Influence A Teacher's Decision To Renew National Board Certification? / By Kelly Lynne Teague.

Abstract

Building on the research of National Board Certification and its effect on teacher quality, student achievement, and professional development, this dissertation seeks to explore the factors that influence teachers when it is time to renew their National Board Certification. Using a qualitative methodology, this study seeks to describe the process of National Board Certification, the process of renewal of National Board Certification, and the individual stories of nine Nationally Board Certified teachers and the factors that influenced them when it was time to renew their National Board Certification. A case study approach was utilized to address the research question. Data were collected through an online survey, individual interviews with nine participants, and two focus group interviews, one with five participants and one with three participants. Data analysis employed open coding and a priori coding of the individual interviews and the focus group interviews through the use of QDA Miner. QDA Miner is a qualitative data analysis software program that assists researchers in managing, coding and analyzing qualitative data. Interviews were transcribed within 48 hours and uploaded into the software and examined by the researcher to identify patterns and themes related to the factors that influence teachers when it is time to renew their National Board Certification. Excerpts from participant responses in individual interviews and focus group interviews are included. Identification of conceptual categories and sub-categories were identified. The main reasons for non-renewal of National Board Certification were: 1) lack of financial assistance to offset the cost of the renewal process, 2) no financial supplement offered, and 3) lack of prestige surrounding National Board Certification. Recommendations for further study include additional research regarding the National Board Certification process, the process of renewal in other states, and teacher prestige. It would be advantageous to replicate the study in other counties in Georgia and in other states in which incentives are offered for achievement of National Board Certification.