Teacher and teacher assistant perceptions of their relationship

Abstract

This qualitative research study examined teachers’ and teacher assistants’ perceptions of their working relationships. Three teachers and three teacher assistants reflected specifically on their work experiences and interactions with their job partners in their respective schools, as they worked to provide supports to students with a variety of behavioral, academic and medical needs. Two main questions guided this research: How did each participant describe their working relationship with his/her job partner? What factors were perceived as influential on a positive and effective working relationship? Thematic analysis of the qualitative interview data from the participants informed the generation of dominant themes. The role of administration, professional interaction, and personal attributes emerged as main factors influencing the teacher and teacher assistant relationship. The researcher provides a model for conceptualizing this relationship and suggests that professionalism is required of both parties in the relationship. The model of professionalism is supported by three main behaviors exhibited by people in the relationship: competence, collegiality, and clarity of role.