Walking the Extra Mile: An Educator's Enviable Role Towards Altruistic Obligation

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted to look into the different lived experiences of the seasoned and experienced educators in their journey towards altruistic obligations. Using the guide questions, the researcher conducted her interviews using a video-record type. The themes that emerged from the co-researchers in the study were unanimous with regards to the generalized knowledge and experiences for choosing to teach as their profession; its difference from other professions; their ways of performing their duties, responsibilities, and obligations; their sacrifices and struggles just for the sake of the learners' welfare; and their journey in making a difference in a child's life. Similarly, the summarized findings from the responses in the interviews were discussed in relation to theories and other research findings from the gathered literature.

METHODS

The study utilized qualitative research with phenomenology as an approach.

RESULTS

This phenomenological study acquired the lived experiences of the seasoned and experienced educators who have been in the teaching service for almost 16 years above in the selected schools in the Division of Calamba City. The semi-structured interview of this co-researchers focused on their experiences about their enviable roles towards altruistic obligations. To further attest the abovementioned concepts, the following are the themes that emerged from their responses and testimonies: (1) teaching as a rewarding profession; (2) symbiotic relationship with learners;(3) passionate and committed service; (4) self-sacrificing and selfless; (5) satisfaction and self-fulfillment and; (6) social contributions.

DISCUSSIONS

It only shows that teachers do not only teach; they influence and build communities and uplift awareness in many aspects of life for they are known to be selfless and unselfish in providing the needs of the learners and fulfilling their altruistic obligations which pertain to duties and responsibilities which exist and done naturally because it is a selfless act of service for the benefit of others. It is important that educators must be acknowledged and recognized with the various roles that they perform and appreciate their contributions in influencing and producing learners who are capable of creating a better society. Being able to provide their needs in teaching increases their capability of achieving and attaining their goals in making the learners globally competent.