A National Survey: French Immersion Teachers' Preparation and Their Professional Development Needs

Abstract

This article discusses the findings of a national survey of the professional development needs of French immersion teachers. The survey, funded by the Secretary of State, Canada, and commissioned by the Canadian Association of Immersion Teachers, was designed to gather descriptive information on the pre- and inservice education of French immersion teachers and to determine their future professional development needs. It was conducted in spring, 1992 in over 650 schools in all provinces and territories of Canada. A sample of 2000 French immersion teachers, representing 17% of the estimated population of immersion teachers in Canada, was randomly chosen to participate. Conclusions of the survey are discussed in relation to the research literature on professional development, and recommendations are made to heighten the Association’s role as an advocate for the unique professional development needs of French immersion teachers.