Groundbreaking research led by Professor Alyson Simpson (University of Sydney), Associate Professor Wayne Cotton, and Dr Rachel White (Western Sydney University) is challenging traditional views on teacher quality by spotlighting the personal traits that truly define effective educators.
Published in the new book What’s the Evidence? An Investigation into Teacher Quality, the study identifies 50 qualities, many of which can’t be measured by student outcomes or taught in training, that reflect the humanity, resilience, and relational depth essential to great teaching. Among the top 10 traits are reflection, resilience, adaptability, motivation, respect, patience, clear communication, collaboration, ethics, and persistence.
Drawing on insights from 548 participants, including teachers, education experts, and recent graduates, the research reframes teacher quality as more than just content knowledge or academic achievement. It provides an evidence-based framework that can guide both teacher preparation and professional development.
The study underscores a vital message: to nurture future generations, we must better understand and support the individuals who teach them — not just for what they know, but for who they are.
