Researching Teachers

Question 1

How does power and status of the teacher affect the sociologists research

Answer 1

The nature of the classroom reinforces the idea of power. Teachers consider it “their classroom”.

The sociologist may be seen as an outsider if the approach directly

Question 2

How can the negative aspects of power and status be combated by the sociologist

Answer 2

Sociologists would have to develop a cover in order to perform covert investigations such as a supply teacher. This would eliminate the idea of the sociologist being an outsider from the teacher.

Question 3

How does impressions of the teacher affect the sociologists research

Answer 3

Due to the nature of teaching, the teacher may have to put on an act/ a public face in order to thrive in the school environment. Therefore, it may be difficult to gain proper interpretations of the teacher’s opinion.

Head teachers may also influence which staff are selected, in order to maintain a positive reputation of the school

Question 4

How can the negative aspects of impressions be combated by the sociologist

Answer 4

The sociologist can combat these issues by using observation instead of asking direct questions