In the ever-evolving landscape of education, teachers stand as the stalwarts, shaping the minds of future generations. From navigating the intricacies of digital classrooms to adapting teaching methodologies that cater to the diverse needs of our Generation Alpha learners, to managing bureaucratic organization behaviours, teachers find themselves at the intersection of innovation and responsibility. As we explore the challenges and triumphs that accompany this change, it becomes evident that the well-being of our teachers is crucial for the success of educational endeavors and deeply intertwined with society’s intellectual and emotional development.
Globally studies have shown, alarming rates of waning teacher interest in the profession. A study done by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development(2019), has reported that only one out of four teachers believes that teaching is a profession valued in society.
In the light of these facts and figures we at DPS and Pallavi group of schools, under the chairmanship of Mr. Malka Komaraiah believe that, it is our obligation to delve deeper into this issue that is gaining wind. And so, a research study was undertaken on the “Occupational well being of teachers”, by the student counselors Mrs. Triveni Varakala and Mr. Srikanth Majjiga, and our ERP co-ordinator Mr. Vuyyala Sai Kumar, under the leadership of Dr T. Sudha, Academic Director. The study covered all schools of our organization, tallying more than thousand teachers.
The framework was designed to analyse the core wellbeing dimensions of social, cognitive, physical, mental and spiritual. A colossal amount of data was gathered right from indicators measuring levels of job satisfaction to counting frequency of psychosomatic symptoms being experienced by teachers. The JD-R model was used, that includes two parallel processes: job demands and job resources (Bakker and Demerouti, 2007). Teachers were grouped under different characteristics like age, experience, subjects taught etc. Further statistical tools were employed to analyse the interplay of the study defined independent and dependent variables that lead to outcomes in teachers in terms of stress, efficacy in classroom, motivation to leave teaching, etc.
In our comprehensive study, we meticulously wove connections between independent variables such as school and teacher characteristics and dependent variables, shedding light on previously overlooked facets that directly contribute to teacher stress and identifying the major sources of teacher burnout. Our research tools uncovered correlations between each dimension, emphasizing the significance of the social well-being dimension. Moreover, the data pinpointed group-specific challenges, offering a comparative scoring of variables within each teacher group.
Backed by steadfast support from management, we are actively implementing study-derived suggestions across all school branches to augment the welfare of our teachers. At Pallavi and DPS group, we aspire to serve as ambassadors, leaving no stone unturned in shaping the future world leaders. Firmly rooted in the belief that investing in teacher well-being is an investment in the future, we are dedicated to nurturing the foundations of knowledge for a flourishing society. Our commitment to continuous improvement propels us to undertake such endeavors, ensuring the refinement of our service.
Counselors and Research Resource Department Member Directors, DPSGOS
Dr T. Sudha
Mrs. Triveni Varakala
Mr. Srikanth Majjiga
Mr. Vuyyala Sai Kumar