Navigating the Experience of DepEd Teachers' Decision to Work Abroad: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

This qualitative study explores teachers' experiences from the Philippines who have chosen to work internationally, focusing on their motivations, challenges, and insights. Through in-depth interviews with six participants, themes emerged related to increased salary and benefits, teaching environment and classroom support, enhanced professional and personal development, challenges, and retention strategies. The findings highlight the importance of economic incentives, supportive teaching environments, and opportunities for growth and development in influencing teachers' decisions to migrate. However, participants also identify challenges such as cultural differences, classroom management issues, and homesickness. To address retention concerns, participants advocate for improved salary, classroom support, and mental health initiatives in the Philippine education sector. This study contributes to the understanding of teacher migration dynamics and informs strategies to enhance teacher retention and address migration-related issues in education systems worldwide.