Unwavering Passion: Predicaments and Struggles of Volunteer Teachers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55927/eajmr.v5i5.109Keywords:
Volunteer Teachers, Predicaments, Struggles, Unwavering Passion, Professional GrowthAbstract
This study aims to understand the lived experiences of volunteer teachers, including their predicaments, struggles, coping mechanisms, plans for professional growth, and how they use their experiences to improve their teaching performance. This study utilized a Qualitative research design through the use of semi-structured interviews. Participant involvement in this study was voluntary, and they were interviewed privately after signing an informed consent form. The findings of this study revealed that the predicaments of being a volunteer teacher include the lack of choice in following orders because they need to protect their reputation, uninterested learners, lack of financial support and recognition, overload administrative work, and an unfair system, which leads to unfair treatment between regular teachers and volunteer teachers. Furthermore, volunteer teachers should also prioritize their wellness by maintaining self-care practices, which are essential in balancing their personal and professional life. Lastly, volunteer teachers should also be encouraged to pursue continuous professional development to provide quality education to their learners.
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