An Investigation of Factors Affecting Retention of Teachers in Primary Schools at Kasur District

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to determine how public school teachers including both male and female in district Kasur perceive various pressures and experiences associated with a career in education. These perceptions were then analysed as possible indicators of teacher attrition in order to improve retention rates. The independent demographic variables were selected to analyse these perceptions included qualification, years of teaching experience, and gender. This survey method was chosen to provide more holistic examination of the primary school teachers’ retention problem. A total of 300 surveys were analysed from both male and female   teachers of the district Kasur. The implication of this study was to serve as guidance for future improvements of teacher retention rates throughout the country. The quantitative data reveals that most teachers in the district Kasur have obtained their master’s degrees and M.Phil.degree within the first 5 years of their educational career. From quantitative analysis, it was evident that teachers view their role as important due to preparing students for future careers. The majority of teachers feel that the role of an educator has changed over the years and most have considered leaving their chosen careers due to low morale, low pay, lack of support,  students aggressive behaviour , stress,  work load  and  lack of  job satisfaction. Teachers stated that the reason they have chosen to remain in education is due to the intrinsic motivation such as making a difference in the life of a young generation and the love or enjoyment that education provides. When teachers were asked about their future plans, almost half of the current teaching force was uncertain, and another one-third plan to leave the teaching profession.