The recent discussions regarding the psychological assessment of teachers, particularly during the recruitment and certification processes, suggesting that it should be evaluated by a test method rather than a doctor's certificate, are of interest.
Can this prevent potential problems within schools, and how realistic is the implementation of these proposals?
Education expert Məzahir Məmmədli, in a statement to AzEdu.az, said that if a test examination or individual assessment phase for teachers' psychological state were implemented, it could create certain bureaucratic difficulties:
“Unfortunately, continuous proposals in this direction are received by both teachers and the Ministry of Science and Education, and this can also be perceived as a social message. It is believed that checking the psychological state of teachers is important. However, we are already observing certain dissatisfactions regarding the recruitment exams for teachers and principals – ideas such as 'there shouldn't be so many exams, there shouldn't be so much pressure' are being voiced.
If a test or individual assessment phase to check the psychological state of teachers were added on top of this, it could lead to additional bureaucratic problems. A written test is technically possible; a candidate can take an exam in front of a computer. However, evaluating the psychological state absolutely requires individual contact, which could lead to disputes and dissatisfactions.”
There is no need for an additional psychological test or a separate examination phase:
“Everyone will consider themselves right and claim that the opinion is incorrect. Therefore, I do not consider its implementation in the form of a separate test or an additional examination to be realistic. In the MİQ (Teacher Recruitment Exam), when candidates achieve high results, they are invited for an interview, and during the interview, their suitability is assessed, taking into account both their psychological state, general behavior, and initial impression. The initial conclusion regarding their suitability for teaching is formed precisely at this stage.
For this reason, there is no need for an additional special psychological test or a separate examination phase. This could create an environment of distrust for both society and teachers.”
