How Should We Decide Which Ones Are the Right Ones to Let In?

McLaughlin, K. (2018) How Should We Decide Which Ones Are the Right Ones to Let In? SERA 43rd Annual Conference, Glasgow, UK, 21-23 Nov 2018.

Abstract

This paper will identify and discuss the constraints and issues that surround the selection process at a Scottish University for the PGDE Primary and Secondary programmes. The aim of the research is to contest the recommendation that the selection process to Initial Teacher Education should be more rigorous (Donaldson, 2011). Initially by identifying a range of education and business recruitment literature that provides insight into various aspects of a selection process (Beardwell et al., 2004; Davies et al., 2016). The methods employed are to look at describing mechanisms to measure and evaluate the section instruments in relation to a recent cohort of applicants. In light of changes to the selection process (from three selection instruments to one), it will analyse key pieces of quantitative data gathered from the selection process in relation to applicant’s success or withdrawal. It will also gather qualitative data via questionnaires and structured interviews with applicants and recruitment staff to gauge their perception in relation to the selection methods. The paper will present findings which will critique the current expectation that all applicants to teaching in Scotland must be interviewed (GTCS, 2013) and provide evidence that will allow for a more efficient and effective recruitment and selection process. Ultimately it will lead to recommendations that are evidence based in relation to the selection and recruitment process for the PGDE programme. This paper will be of relevance to those who have an interest in teacher selection and recruitment in relation to the PGDE pathway.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item
• Keywords: PGDE, selection, interviewing, recruitment.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: No
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: McLaughlin, Mr Kenneth
• Authors: McLaughlin, K.
• Subjects: L Education > L Education (General); L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1501 Primary Education; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1603 Secondary Education. High schools; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education; College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Pedagogy, Praxis & Faith
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2018 The Author
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the Author