How are you, teachers?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Happy teachers make happy learners, and happy learners learn better. This study aimed at knowing the perception of teachers on their work condition and how the government responds to their concerns.

METHODS

A mixed method design was used. 304 common teacher-respondents to two consecutive surveys were included in the study. They were asked to rate their work satisfaction level, their top three wishes, and their opinions and suggestions on how the government responds to their concerns. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to validate survey results. Frequencies, percentages, t-test, coding and thematic analysis were used to present and analyze data.

RESULTS

Majority of the teachers were satisfied with their condition, and think that the government is addressing their concerns. They want their salary to be increased, their paperwork/workload to be reduced, to be provided with sufficient and quality learning and instructional materials; and their school facilities to be improved. The actions taken by the government after the first survey may be a factor for the significant increase in the work satisfaction level of the teachers on the 2nd survey, which was given a month after.

DISCUSSIONS

The results show that despite the many challenges of the teachers, most of them are satisfied with their condition. The importance of constant communication between the government and the teachers was also highlighted. Government awareness and response to teachers' concerns are key factors to the latter's work satisfaction.