Graduate Student Dissertations, Theses, Capstones, and Portfolios
Date of Award
1-12-2021
Document Type
Dissertation
Granting Institution
Lynn University
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EDD)
Degree Program
Educational Leadership
Department
College of Education
First Advisor
Kathleen Weigel
Second Advisor
Jennifer Lesh
Third Advisor
Mary Dixon
Abstract
The field of education is very demanding and stressful. Educators are leaving the field at high rates due to stress levels. Teachers lack self-care strategies to help them cope with an emotionally demanding career. Research shows that self-care builds resilience, which many teaching professionals tend to lack. Educators can greatly benefit from learning about and practicing better self-care. Through review of research, researchers were able to determine that implementing self-care strategies benefits both teachers and students. Self-care strategies increase effectiveness allowing educators to handle challenges that come up during their teaching career. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has created additional challenges for educators through a hybrid model of teaching and learning.
Through the qualitative research, the researchers created an online survey using Likert Scale and open-ended questions to determine the current perceptions and ability of teachers to integrate daily self-care practice. Researchers also determined what components educators believe to be focal points for self-care. Research proves teachers are overwhelmed and need time for daily wellness goals.
After analyzing survey results and recognizing trends, the researchers were able to proceed further in the creation of a potential technology application prototype that will better support self-care in educators. The application would be a useful tool to act as a reminder for the daily integration of self-care strategies. Once users download and open the application, they will be directed to participate in a brief survey to gauge initial self-care needs. This application will direct participants to choose manageable and attainable goals. These selections will act as a guide or reminder for app users. Users can choose to keep track of their goals and continuously make new goals to aid in self-care. Based on the survey results, the researchers conclude that an application like this can help educators integrate self-care strategies daily.
Recommended Citation
Leahy, J., & Wolfe, J. (2021). Teacher Self-Care: A Guide for Educators [Doctoral dissertation, Lynn University]. SPIRAL. https://spiral.lynn.edu/etds/365
