Coaching and Teaching Social Studies: The Perceptions of Preservice Teachers

Abstract

Many preservice social studies students feel that to find employment as a teacher, they must be willing to coach a sport. Yet, there has been little actual research done regarding employment of the teacher/coach and the advisability of being willing to coach as a marketing incentive of the preservice teacher. In order to gain more definite information about preservice teachers’ attitudes in this area, a survey was developed and administered to 174 students who were enrolled in their final methods course before their student teaching. Using a quantitative research design, the study found significant differences between social studies, science, and English preservice teachers in their attitudes regarding interest in coaching, and how important it is to coach to secure a teaching position. Additionally, the study examined what preservice teachers in social studies, science, and English feel is the most important activity other than teaching in their content area to secure a teaching position.