Research in Australia, US and the UK indicates that teachers experience the highest levels of occupational stress (Mason and Matas, 2015; Bailey, 2013; Milburn, 2011; Buchanan, et al, 2013). Kyriacou (1989, 2001) defines stress as a negative feeling or emotional state resulting from work as a teacher.
These unpleasant feelings manifest themselves in a variety of ways such as anger, tension, frustration, or depression, and constitutes a significant threat to teachers' self esteem and well being. Teacher burnout is a by-product of stress which leaves teachers exhausted and feeling "that their work is meaningless and that they are powerless, alienated and isolated" (Howard and Johnson, 2004, p.1).
From an organisational standpoint, stress can result in loss of skilled and experienced teachers through resignations and premature retirement. Those who persist and stay are likely to become less effective in their work. At a personal level, stress can result in poor physical and mental health, reduced self confidence, poor self esteem, poor self efficacy, and damaged personal relationships.
Messages from research indicate that being connected with students and colleagues, feeling supported by colleagues and management, feeling valued at work, and having resources aimed at increasing teachers' sense of self efficacy can be key protective factors against teacher stress and burnout Klassen, et al, 2012; Flook, et al, 2013). This simulation presents a number of vignettes that are aimed at enhancing your capabilities as a teacher in identifying sources of stress and as well as helping you to further develop your strategies for responding to stressful situations...