Academic Challenges and Coping Strategies of Master of Arts in Education Specializing in English Language Teaching

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Getting a Master's degree is an excellent way for teachers to enrich and advance their teaching career. It establishes them as experts and increases their job opportunities and the benefits they will receive. Entering a graduate program though is an important decision that will affect their lives for two (2) to three (3) years. They should be aware of all the pros and cons and they must prepare themselves for the demands of graduate school and its challenges, both intellectual and emotional. This paper addresses the challenges and coping strategies of graduate students in the Master of Arts in Education Specializing in English Language Teaching.

METHODS

The researcher employed the descriptive research method in this study. A self-designed questionnaire was the main instrument in collecting data from the fifty-eight (58) students of the Master of Arts in Education Specializing in English Language Teaching at the Batangas State University-Main Campus.

RESULTS

The teacher-respondents -new and old in teaching service-still wanted to grow professionally. They believed that there is a lot to be gained from pursuing a postgraduate degree, both from the personal and professional level. The study also showed that teachers -young and seasoned -are trying to cope with the program, proving that graduate students persevered. They persistently and effectively found ways of managing disruptions and classroom activities in MAED -ELT.

DISCUSSIONS

This study is relevant for the students in the Master of Arts in Education Specializing in English Language Teaching program because it will help them identify the academic challenges encountered during the course of the program and will help them adopt strategies to withstand the tremendous pressure felt by ay graduate student.