From personal values to career choice: motivations and teacher identity in the early years of initial teacher education


Abstract

The development of professional identity is a central aspect of preservice teacher training. This study  explores the role of intrinsic, extrinsic and altruistic motivations in teacher identity among first- and  second-year students in a Bachelor’s degree programme in Primary Education. A questionnaire was  administered to 472 students at the University of Padova to assess motivations and identity  representations. The data were analysed using descriptive techniques, cluster analysis and ANOVA.  Three distinct motivational profiles emerged and were described, each characterised by a different  balance of motivational factors. Within a mixed-methods design, a subsequent qualitative stage was  conducted to support the interpretation of the quantitative findings. No demographic variable proved  predictive of the motivational profiles. The study confirms the need for personalised and reflective  training programmes and provides an empirical basis for educational interventions.