LEISURE-TIME TEACHERS IN A CHANGED PROFESSION

This exploratory research focus on teaching and learning on the basis of Swedish leisure-time teachers with more than thirty years of experience. The purpose of this research was to bring to light the role of the Leisure time teachers, both in the past up to the present day and into the future. Based on important concepts for professional development, the qualities decisive for a long and sustainable career as a leisure-time teacher are sought.In interviews ten leisure-time teachers describe their professional careers on the following question areas: teachers, children, parents, leisure-time centers and mission. The outcomes are discussed in relation to the professional concepts of knowledge, autonomy, responsibility, collegial decision-making, confidence and trust, closing off and professional development. The results show that there are a number of success factors for why the interviewees stayed in a profession that has undergone and is subject to significant changes. Children, challenges, leisure-time pedagogy, flexibility and teamwork are considered to be important qualities. One factor that in certain cases meant that one did not change profession is that there are no clear career paths within the profession. Change that has occurred regarding the focus of the work is perceived mainly as positive. Leisure-time teachers emphasize that the collaboration with the school has resulted in greater confidence in their own mission and competence. From this research some critical research areas are revealed, such as, children’s possible perceptions of learning requirements at the leisure-time center. Key words: leisure-time center, leisure-time pedagogy, professional development, leisure-time teacher.