Positive Deviance in a Humanitarian Setting
Venezuela is experiencing a major teacher deficit with about 25% of teachers dropping out of schools between 2018 and 2021. Some schools have devised strategies to successfully attract and retain teachers amid the crisis, others haven’t. We try to understand the factors that influence teacher dropout and also reveal grassroots solutions that are helping to cope with the problem. Based on our analysis we propose five recommendations to motivate teachers and address the deficit in the short term.
Findings
Available data can explain very little about teacher dropout rates. School infrastructure and being a subsidized school have an influence.
Schools with less working flexibility have higher dropouts but better learning outcomes.
Teacher opportunities for training and professional development along with peer-to-peer learning impact positively school performance.
Relationships of teachers with parents and principals are determinant in learning outcomes and teacher satisfaction.
Policy Recommendations
These recommendations focus on immediate and short-term strategies to address the shortage of teachers while acknowledging that the education system in Venezuela needs comprehensive reforms for sustainable and meaningful change.
Flexible Working Schedule
Only as a last resource option. Keeping Horario Mosaico will allow for some continuity in education, but it could come at the expense of quality.
Bonus & in-kind Support
Community efforts and alliances with civil society can help provide some additional compensation to teachers.
Training & Development
Teachers are motivated by professional development activities that positively influence learning in students.
Resource Allocation
Schools can potentially reallocate human and teaching resources to favor the continuity of classes. These decisions should be data-driven and involve prior consultation with teachers. Schools can also recruit new untrained teachers from the community.
Heroes Campaign
Teachers feel discouraged and not valued. A recognition campaign led by the community could help improve their morale and elevate the teaching profession.