OPINIONS AND ATTITUDES TOWARD TEACHING CAREER DEVELOPMENT IN INTERCULTURAL CONTEXTS
<doi>10.24250/jpe/2/2025/AME/</doi>
Keywords:
teaching career development, intercultural education, teacher attitudes, professional development, Arad CountyAbstract
In an increasingly diverse educational landscape, teachers
are required to develop intercultural competences that
support inclusive and responsive classroom practices. This
study investigates the opinions and attitudes of teachers
and education professionals in Arad County (Romania)
regarding teaching career development in intercultural
contexts. A mixed-method design was employed, combining
a structured questionnaire with open-ended questions
administered to 45 participants (30 in-service and 15 preservice
teachers). Quantitative data were analysed
descriptively, while qualitative data were coded
thematically. Results indicate a strong recognition of the
importance of intercultural competence (92% agreement)
and a high level of interest in professional development
opportunities (78%), contrasted by perceived gaps in
institutional support (43%). Thematic analysis revealed
motivations related to professional growth, but also
structural barriers to sustained engagement in
intercultural CPD. The findings highlight the need to
embed intercultural competence systematically in teacher
education programmes and to strengthen institutional
frameworks that support continuous professional
development.
