Bay State News

Teacher Tapp has revealed that 40% of teachers with siblings are the eldest child, based on data from a recent survey. This finding was shared in a blog post on April 4.

The survey conducted by Teacher Tapp examines the connection between birth order and the teaching profession. By analyzing familial backgrounds, the study aims to determine if being the eldest, middle, or youngest child affects one's likelihood of pursuing a career in teaching. The investigation seeks to understand how family dynamics may influence career choices within education.

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that firstborns often possess better early cognitive and school readiness skills. These attributes may contribute to their inclination towards professions requiring such competencies, including teaching. This research indicates a potential link between being the eldest child and entering the teaching profession.

According to Teachers in Their Power, studies have demonstrated that teaching can be a familial trait. Research conducted by Jacinto and Gershenson found that children whose mothers were teachers were nine percentage points more likely to pursue teaching careers compared to those whose mothers were not educators. This trend was particularly notable among daughters and Latinx families but was observed across various demographic groups.

Teacher Tapp is an educational survey platform designed to gather daily insights from educators to inform and shape educational policies and practices. Founded in 2017 by former teachers Becky Allen and Laura McInerney, the platform engages over 10,000 educators, providing valuable data that influences media coverage and governmental decisions in the education sector.