Factors influencing teaching as a career choice (FIT-Choice) in Ghana

Abstract

This research was conducted to examine the structural validity of Watt and Richardson’s (2007) Factors Influencing Teaching Choice (FIT-Choice) scale in the Ghanaian context among teachers in pre-tertiary schools. A cohort of 354 teachers were selected to take part in a quantitative survey, and data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The research found that the participants were influenced by social utility value and personal utility value to choose a teaching career rather than extrinsic utility value. The research further showed that, while in teaching, the teachers mainly believed in their expertise, and were satisfied with their choice of a teaching career devoid of dissuasion. The research recommended giving a better opportunity to teachers to enjoy job security, time for family, transfers and social equity.