Study title

Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.This mixed methods study sought to identify key factors that contribute to the similarities, dissimilarities and variations in teachers’ management of sustained effective teaching. The study builds on a longitudinal research project into Variations in Teachers’ Work, Lives and their Effects on Pupils (VITAE) (not available from the UKDA) by including new observational components to investigate the classroom practice of teachers drawn from schools where national test and exam results were identified as being typical or better than expected in terms of value-added. There were two rounds of school-based data collection (autumn 2006 and spring/summer 2007) which included a teacher questionnaire survey, observations of classroom practice, pre- and post-observation interviews with teachers, and repertory grid interviews. In addition pupil questionnaires were completed in each of the participating teachers’ classes or teaching groups. The data available from the UKDA are a sample of data collected. The sample comprises 30 teacher interview transcripts (pre/post observation and round 1 and 2), 10 Repertory grid interview transcripts (round 1 and 2); a sample of data from the teacher interviews and teaching observations, a sample of data from the pupil questionnaires completed by Year 2, 6 and 9 students. The data cannot be linked. Further information can be found on the ESRC award web page.Main Topics:Teacher data: Questionnaire survey: used to a) identify key characteristics of teachers in terms of age, years in teaching and school sector; and b) establish, in conjunction with the literature, key factors thought to influence teachers’ classroom practice and student learning and attainmentObservations of classroom practice: using a) fieldnotes to explore factors including classroom relationships, teacher persona, etc; and b) structured observation schedules. The International System for Teacher...