Establishing the validity and reliability of the survey identifying the professional development needs of international teachers

The study focused on constructing a valid and reliable survey instrument that can be used to identify the professional development needs of international teachers who are teaching in public schools in the United States of America. Three research questions guided the study: (a) Is the survey of sound psychometrics in terms of content validity, construct validity, and reliability? (b) What are the major areas in which international teachers indicate a strong level of preparedness for teaching in the United States? (c) What are the major areas in which international teachers indicate a strong need for induction and professional development for teaching in the United States?;The survey items were field tested with one hundred fifty two international teachers. The data were analyzed for content validity, construct validity, and reliability. Findings revealed that the majority of the items are valid and reliable with a few that should be retested. In addition, insights gained from the frequency of responses to the survey questions revealed that international teachers were generally prepared to teach in the United Sates. However, there were some specific areas in which they indicated a need for support and professional development.;The findings from this study will help to further the conversation on how to make professional development activities relevant to the needs of international teachers in the United States.