ACCOUNTS OF PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS ON INVOLUNTARY TRANSFER OF STATION: A PHENOMENOLOGY

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study, adopting the phenomenological approach, is to discover and understand the lived experiences of public elementary school teachers who were involuntarily transferred to a different station or school in the Division of Davao del Norte. In the data collection procedure, fourteen (14) teachers were selected through purposive sampling and they participated in the study. The participants were divided equally between in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to gather data from each of them. More importantly, trustworthiness and ethical considerations were applied in the data collection procedures, ensuring the total well-being of all participating teachers. From the participants, it was identified that they experienced struggling with financial strains, lack of school facilities and resources, challenges linked to long distance of school, predicaments relative to transitioning to multigrade classes, and electrical and internet connectivity challenges. They also revealed the different ways of coping that they had such as exhibiting positive traits and behaviors, fostering positive relationships and connections, highlighting support systems, and drawing inspiration from recognition and validation. They also realized the following insights which are namely fair and systematic approach in teacher transfers, see change as a constant thing that must be accepted, pursue personal and professional goals, and emphasize positive relationships. While most of the participants were able to adapt to the situation, the Department of Education may also reflect upon the findings of this study and may always seek to prioritize the well-being of all public-school teachers who breathe life into the basic education system that we are having today.