What motivates mathematics teachers?

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine factors of mathematics teachers' motivation. 19 female and 23 male mathematics teachers participated in the study. Data were obtained with the help of semi-structured interviews. Data were coded by doing content analysis and themes were reached. Coder balance analysis was found .75. It was concluded that internal motivation was more effective than external motivation and female mathematics teachers were more motivated. Four factors which motivated internally were; their students, their teaching, their attitude towards mathematics and teaching profession, and their beliefs. It was concluded that as external motivation the school management did not motivate mathematics teacher enough. Necessary attempts should be done by both school managements and provincial directorate of education to increase mathematics teachers' internal ad external motivation. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved