A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

School neighbourhood socio-economic status and teachers' work commitment in Finland: longitudinal survey with register linkage




AuthorsLinnansaari-Rajalin T, Kivimaki M, Ervasti J, Pentti J, Vahtera J, Virtanen M

PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD

Publication year2015

Journal: Teachers and Teaching: Theory and Practice

Journal name in sourceTEACHERS AND TEACHING

Journal acronymTEACH TEACH

Volume21

Issue2

First page 131

Last page149

Number of pages19

ISSN1354-0602

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1080/13540602.2014.928128


Abstract

The extent to which school neighbourhood affects teachers' work commitment is poorly known. In the current study, we investigated whether school neighbourhood socio-economic characteristics predicted teachers' organizational and professional commitment. Primary school teachers (n = 1042) responded to surveys in 2000-2001 (baseline) and 2004 (follow-up). Their responses were linked to records of the school neighbourhood income and unemployment levels obtained from nationwide registers. Teachers working in areas with a high income level and low unemployment rate had longer job tenure and higher probability of organizational (school) commitment at follow-up compared to teachers working in areas with a low income level or high unemployment rate. Less consistent associations were found for professional commitment. These findings suggest that school neighbourhood characteristics may affect teachers' work commitment, especially their organizational commitment. Further research is needed to determine whether this increases inequalities in children's learning opportunities.




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