Understanding Teacher-Subject Mismatches in Integrated Schools: A Phenomenological Study of Challenges, Adaptive Strategies, and Implementation of Educational Quality

Author

Ronelyn V. Valeroso

Abstract

 This study focuses on the experiences of teachers who taught subjects outside their specialization at integrated junior high schools. The objective of the study was to explore the problems and difficulties faced by teachers while teaching out of field, the outcome of teaching out of field on their performance as well as on students' learning process, and the strategies for overcoming the problems. The implications of the teacher-subject mismatch for the quality of instruction are analyzed, and the need for the program is justified. In the research, a phenomenological qualitative design was used to collect data from ten participants who have been working beyond their specialization using the Key Informant Interview and Colaizzi's phenomenological method. It was revealed that the teachers who taught subjects outside their specialization faced challenges with regard to mastering the subject, lesson planning and delivery, assessment, and classroom Management. Besides, the research shows that teachers also face extra demands in the form of time, energy, and preparation. However, it was shown that teachers adapted by means of research, collaboration with fellow teachers, and application of technological resources. It was found that teachers also see how important professional help is in dealing with new assignments. The research showed that the mismatch in the teacher's profession might have a negative impact on the effectiveness of the learning process. The study did not find a direct correlation between teaching subjects beyond specialization and students' academic performance. The researcher has proposed Project ALIGN to assist teachers in dealing with problems of teacher-subject mismatch. The study confirms the need to utilize professional development and mentoring programs to help teachers close the gap between the subject taught and the teacher's specialization.

Keywords

instructional quality, integrated schools, Project ALIGN, teacher specialization, teacher-subject mismatch, out-of-field teaching,

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References

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