Teacher Retention in an Age of Performative Accountability: Target Culture and the Discourse of Disappointment

Jane Perryman's book "Teacher Retention in an Age of Performative Accountability" critically analyzes the culture of performative accountability in education and its impact on teacher recruitment and retention. She argues that the increasing focus on assessment and evaluation in schools has led to a decline in the individualistic and creative aspects of teaching, leading to a "discourse of disappointment" among teachers. The book offers a valuable insight into the effects of accountability and performativity mechanisms on the working experience of teachers and provides recommendations for addressing the crisis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In this comprehensive and timely volume, Jane Perryman delves into a thorough examination of the crisis in teacher recruitment and retention by critiquing the prevailing culture of performative accountability in education. Through a fusion of theory, literature, and empirical evidence, Perryman offers a definitive analysis that sheds light on the profound impact of this culture on the lives of teachers both in the United Kingdom and internationally.

Drawing upon data from numerous long-term research projects and employing a Foucauldian theoretical framework, Perryman compellingly argues that the work of teachers is increasingly being shaped by the rise of neoliberal performativity and accountability culture within schools. The focus of teachers' work has shifted significantly, with an overwhelming emphasis on assessment, exams, progress measures, and preparation for review and inspection. This shift has resulted in a diminished emphasis on the more individualized and creative aspects of teaching, leading to a culture of hyper accountability and super-performativity.

Perryman's analysis reveals the detrimental effects of this culture on the professional aspirations and well-being of teachers. She highlights how the relentless demands of performative accountability lead to a discourse of disappointment, where the hopes and aspirations of teachers are crushed under the weight of the performative pressures they face. This disheartening reality undermines the intrinsic motivation and fulfillment of teachers, contributing to a high rate of teacher attrition.

Teacher Retention in an Age of Performative Accountability is a groundbreaking critical analysis that provides a deep understanding of how the values, purposes, and practices embedded in education shape the working experience of teachers over time. Perryman makes a substantial contribution to our understanding of the consequences of accountability and performativity mechanisms in schools, offering valuable insights into the factors that drive so many teachers to leave the profession. This analysis holds immense importance for scholars, educators, and policymakers alike.

In conclusion, Jane Perryman's volume serves as a crucial contribution to the ongoing discourse on teacher recruitment and retention. Through her insightful critique of the culture of performative accountability, Perryman sheds light on the profound impact of this culture on the lives of teachers and offers valuable insights into the urgent need for transformative change. This analysis is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by educators and working towards creating a more supportive and fulfilling teaching environment.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 154 x 232 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367361396