Trade-to-teacher pathways: Alleviating teacher shortages with flexible-learning options for adults

Attracting trade-qualified professionals into teacher education may alleviate some of the challenges of the looming teacher shortage. This presentation will report on research conducted with adults transitioning through trade-to-teacher pathways and discuss some barriers and enablers to enrolment and retention. This knowledge has been useful for developing flexible-learning options and tailoring Distance Education delivery modes. CQUniversity uses flexible pathways to deliver theoretical and practical skills that facilitate access by adult learners to our Home Economics and Hospitality teacher-education program in spite of their diverse geographic locations and unique life circumstances.