| The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of full-time occupational instructors in engineering and technology related fields at Illinois community colleges. Specifically, it attempted to examine instructors' perceptions of incentives and barriers to ongoing professional development.; The analysis included data from 96 survey respondents who were full-time occupational instructors. Qualitative interviews were also used from 4 full-time occupational instructors and one administrator. Demographic data showed that the typical full-time engineering and technology instructor at an Illinois community college was a Caucasian male whom held a Masters degree or higher, was over 40, and had been teaching for less then 15 years.; Findings in the study indicated that relationships existed between some characteristics of full-time occupational instructors and certain professional development practices, and that professional development practices will be impacted as needs at community colleges change. Furthermore, the study results included the types of training options offered to full time occupational instructors, and perceived incentives/barriers to participation in professional development for occupational instructors.; The top barriers to professional development for faculty were having work responsibilities, attainment of career or personal goals, and having family responsibilities. The main training options offered by the institutions included using computer software, incorporating the Internet into the classroom, keeping abreast of new technology, and learning new instructional strategies. Finally, the professional development options most offered by the institutions included sponsoring in-service workshop activities, offering updates on learning new computer software, and providing presentations from professional or educational organizations. |
