Perceptions of Teachers and the Field of Teaching by School Psychologists

The relationship between school psychologists and teachers is one that has yet to be fully examined to see what the perceptions and attitudes that school psychologists hold about teachers and teaching, how having teaching experience may impact those perceptions, and whether or not the field of school psychology may benefit from incorporating teaching experience in the training of school psychologists. While there has been limited research on the perceptions teachers hold about school psychologists, there is very little exploring the relationship in the other direction, and no current research on the potential benefits of incorporating teaching experience. This research study uses data collected through a survey of school psychologists and school psychologist interns with and without teaching experience to look closer at this relationship, and through t-test analysis examines the difference having teaching experience may have on their perceptions. The major findings show that overall school psychologists have positive perceptions of teachers, and those with teaching experience feel their teaching experience bolsters their relationships and collaboration with, and empathy for teachers. Despite this, there is general agreement that requiring teaching experience would not benefit the field and improve relationships with teachers. Further research in this area is indicated. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]