An examination of the BC teacher on call system

This thesis examines the substitute teacher system in British Columbia. It is argued that strengths include the use of qualified teachers as substitutes, provisions for professional development, protection of preparation time for contract teachers, and central management of the system. Weaknesses identified include a lack of preparation in teacher training programs for the role of substitute teacher, a lack of guidance and support within schools, the frequency of substitute teachers covering classes in subject areas and levels outside their training, and unsatisfactory working conditions. Although further inquiry is needed, it is therefore suggested that better preparation of beginning teachers for the realities of substitute teaching work in teacher preparation programs, the development of a systematic theory of substitute teaching, a reduction or elimination of out-of-field teaching, and continued efforts to resolve issues surrounding working conditions would be beneficial changes to the current system.