Teachers exhausted by unreachable targets
Thursday 02 September 2010
Printable
EmailUnrealistic goals and the high expectations of others are making teachers stressed and exhausted, researchers have warned.
A study by Kent University revealed that teachers who were asked to do more than they were capable of delivering had higher stress levels and were more at risk of stress-related illnesses and burnout.
But teachers who set high standards for themselves were more likely to feel mentally energetic and emotionally invested in their work.
The report, conducted in association with the Teacher Support Network, concluded that to reduce stress teachers should be allowed to set their own standards rather than having them imposed by managers.
Report author Julian Childs said: "Teachers need to discuss clear and achievable work goals with their managers.
"Managers then need to make sure teachers have the resources to achieve these goals and are able to talk about conflicting duties and how these can be prioritised."
The study questioned 197 teachers twice over three months.
If you have enjoyed this article then please consider donating to the Morning Star's Fighting Fund to ensure we can keep publishing your paper.
Editorial
Delay rather than resistance
Party political manoeuvring between the Greek social-democratic, conservative and fascist parties has delayed acceptance of the blackmail demands presented by the troika of European Union, International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank.
Features
An imperial adventure set to continue
The growing intervention in Syrian internal affairs demonstrates the West's blatant attempt to rally reactionary Arab forces in support of its continued domination of the region, says George Galloway
All prawn and no brains...
Jacqui Smith's bizarre call to get schmoozing with the City