Investigating Permission To Teach: Perceptions of Lived Experiences

Permission to Teach (PTT) is being used in Queensland schools to help ameliorate the issue of teacher shortages. 

Description 

Permission to Teach (PTT) is being used in Queensland schools to help ameliorate the issue of teacher shortages. Over the last three years, the number of PTT approvals have increased significantly. Funded by the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT), this research project was twofold in its objectives. It firstly aimed to investigate the trends and patterns of PTT approvals in Queensland from 2019 to 2023, and secondly, gain insight into the experiences of those who were either currently on PTT, or who had completed a PTT and graduated from their ITE program and had commenced in the teaching profession.

The research design consisted of a mixed methods approach that utilised quantitative and qualitative instruments to produce a multi-layered set of data. A mixed

methods approach allows for purposeful design and affords complementary and validatory analysis of data. The sequential three-phase design enabled the researchers to examine the data from each phase before moving onto the next. The data sets included:

  • QCT PTT data (2019-2023) to identify trends in school contexts, sector type, region and remoteness of schools, subjects and grades being taught and the degree in which the PTT applicant was enrolled in.  The data from the QCT included 2610 individual data sets.
  • An online survey of Queensland PTT participants with 820 responses received; and
  • Focused interviews with 13 PTT participants from a range of teaching and geographical contexts to allow diversity of perspectives.

Impact Statement 

With limited research focussing on alternative authorisation to teach options like Permission To Teach, this research project provides an important foundation for future research.  Significantly, this research project provides a voice for those who have experienced PTT and enables educators to better understand both the benefits and challenges as well as to suggest ways in which to enhance the PTT experience. 

Lead Partners 

Queensland College of Teachers

Project Lead

Associate Professor Angelina Ambrosetti

SDGs 

At CQUniversity we are committed to embedding sustatainble practice in our operations, interatctions and relationships underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainability is on of our strategic pillars within our Strategic Plan 2024-28. 

This project aligned with the following SDG Goals: 

4 – Quality Education