This study was conducted to test the validity of previously developed theories as to why individuals select teaching as a career and to determine whether the orientation of preservice and inservice teachers differs regarding reasons for choosing the teaching profession. A 58-item instrument, "Orientations for Teaching Survey," was designed, with item development based on the findings of previous studies. The instrument was administered to 28 undergraduate and 22 graduate students enrolled in a teacher education program, with data analyzed separately for the experienced teachers and the preservice teachers. The study used a Q-technique factor analytic method, which allows factoring across a series of test items resulting in clusters of persons relative to a given construct. Results suggest that the instrument is useful in clarifying current and potential teachers' career motivations and that Q-methodology is a useful way to develop motivational themes. Whatever the motivation for selecting teaching as a career, most individuals seem to recognize that it should not be viewed as a way to make an easy living until something better comes along. An extensive reference list, five tables, and a complete copy of the survey are appended. (Author/LL)