Factors Affecting Teacher Professionalism

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Republic Act No. 7836, otherwise known as the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994 was adopted as the Code of Ethics for Professional Teachers here in the Philippines. This demands strict adherence to and observance of ethical and moral principles, standards, and values, inside the school and out. However, this conservative idea of professionalism is highly affected by the present world with "professionalism" being widely viewed simply as the extent a teacher can use their skills and experience to overcome any difficulty (Baggini, 2005) without regard to other conservative factors.

METHODS

Quantitative in approach, this study employed factor analysis. This allowed for the quantification of emergent latent factors and the highest influential factors in developing the sense of professionalism among millennial educators in the four congressional districts of the Division of Batangas Province, excluding the Divisions of Batangas City and Lipa City. Participants were chosen using the non-probability criterion sampling technique among public school teachers from 22-28 years old. A survey questionnaire was designed and employed to reveal respondents' opinion towards general knowledge/ability, focused training, teaching experience, certification, academic degree, and personal attributes.

RESULTS

The principal component analysis revealed that the personal and professional attributes of millennial teachers are the primary factor that contributes in the development of one's professionalism. The millennial teachers are more open to changes, new ways of doing things, and staying abreast of development. It was also evident that the inclination of millennial teachers in employing multicultural education, differentiated instruction, and integrating educational technology in their practice also contributed in their professional development.

DISCUSSIONS

The teaching competencies of teachers such as lesson planning skills, behavior management skills, evaluation skills, and communication skills appeared to be influential factors in enhancing and developing their professionalism. The millennial teachers also reported the high level of teaching competencies and positive attitude towards work as influential factors in their professional development.