Motives for Becoming a Teacher in Times of Digital Change: Development and Validation of the (D)FIT-Choice Scale

This research paper introduces the (D)FIT-Choice (Digital Factors Influencing Teacher Choice) scale and discusses the outcomes of its initial implementation. The (D)FIT-Choice scale expands upon the existing FIT-Choice scale by incorporating additional subscales, namely "Prior digital technology use in education" within Socialization Influences, "Perceived digital teaching competence" within Self-perceptions, and "Contribute to the digital transformation" within Social Utility Value. "Intrinsic value subject" has also been incorporated within Intrinsic Value, and other items have been improved. By administering the (D)FIT-Choice scale to a sample of 506 student teachers, its validity and reliability as an assessment tool were established. The results indicate that digital factors are not prominent drivers for individuals choosing to pursue a career in teaching. Instead, higher levels of digital motivation are associated with the practical benefits of the job rather than with teaching-related intentions. These findings hold implications for teacher training, emphasizing the importance of understanding student teachers' motivations concerning digital technology and adequately preparing future educators for the present and future digital educational landscape.