Exploring the Unique Professional Identity of Hospital Teachers

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Teacher Professional Identity
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Teacher professional identity significantly influences motivation, effectiveness, and job satisfaction.
• Hospital teachers operate within a unique educational setting distinct from traditional schools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the perceived professional identity of hospital teachers.
• To understand the complexities of their work environment and teaching experiences.

Main Methods:

• Conducted semi-structured interviews with 37 hospital teachers.
• Explored personal and professional aspects of their work experience.

Main Results:

• Hospital teachers reported a multilayer professional identity.
• They described their work environment and teaching as complex and different from regular schools.
• The hospital teachers found their work to be satisfying.

Conclusions:

• Clarifying the unique professional identity of hospital teachers is vital.
• This understanding can foster professional development, confidence, and well-being in this specialized field.