Development of the Korean teachers’ occupational work ethic scale: its factor structure, validity and reliability

Abstract

The Teachers’ Occupational Work Ethic Scale (TOWES) was developed for assessing teachers’ work ethic in Korea. Based on an extensive literature review of work ethic instruments and focus group interviews of 15 principals from elementary, middle, and high schools, 77 initial items were developed. Content and face validity of the items were examined by a panel of experts. A total of 388 teachers across elementary, middle, and high schools provided usable data. Factor analyses verified the scale’s structure as fitting a four-factor model: integrity, interpersonal skills, respect for students, and professional development. Construct validity of the TOWES was established by scores of each of the four factors being moderately correlated. Convergent validity was tested using the Teachers’ Vocation Ethics and the Korean Occupational Work Ethic Inventory-Short Form. Finally, internal consistency was examined using coefficient alpha scores. Implications and suggestions for further studies and practice are discussed.