Shortages in School Psychology: a survey a graduate educators on training issues

Year: 2023

Issue: Vol. 39 Issue. 3,4

Journal Name: School Psychology Training and Pedagogy

Title: Shortages in School Psychology: A Survey of Graduate Educators on Training Issues

Citation: Bonis, S. O., Dixon, R. J., & Shanock, A. (2023) Shortages in School Psychology: A Survey of Graduate Educators on Training Issues. School Psychology Training and Pedagogy, 39 (3-4), 80-89. 

Abstract: School psychologists are necessary to meet the behavioral, academic, and social-emotional needs of students, yet significant workforce shortages remain. School psychology graduate educators are one important group who can positively impact the shortages. In this study, the current issues and needs of graduate educators to address the shortage of school psychologists were identified. Participants responded to a 14-item survey that included items to categorize individual and program issues related to shortages, open-ended questions, and several program/participant demographic items. Findings suggest the three highest rated priority areas for graduate education are (1) recruiting diverse students, (2) retaining diverse students, and (3) providing financial support to students. Given a shortage of school psychology faculty and to ensure graduate faculty are well supported in the rest of their role and can devote time to addressing shortages, we also surveyed personal challenges within the trainer role. Graduate faculty identified teaching as a high priority issue to be addressed. The most frequently recommended solution to address shortages was the creation of alternative pathways into the field at both the master’s and doctoral level. Results highlight the well documented need to support faculty in efforts to diversify school psychology training programs, and ultimately the school psychology field. Implications for graduate educators are discussed.

Keywords:   shortages, training in school psychology, recruitment, retention, diversity

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