Satisfaction in Job: Voices from Secondary Level Social Studies Teachers

Abstract

Teacher job satisfaction refers to the fulfillment and happiness educators feel in their professional roles, influenced by factors like working conditions, salary, relationships with colleagues and students, autonomy, and opportunities for career growth. Ensuring teacher satisfaction is crucial for improving teaching practices, enhancing student performance, and fostering a positive learning environment. This study explores the job satisfaction of secondary school social studies teachers in Nepal using structured, open-ended interviews with four participants. General qualitative methods were employed to analyze the data. The findings reveal that while teachers generally express satisfaction with their roles, several factors significantly affect their professional growth and overall well-being. Key factors include educational qualifications, access to training, availability of resources, institutional support, and financial benefits. However, political interference emerges as a major obstacle to educational improvement. This study highlights the need to address these challenges and prioritize professional development to enhance teacher welfare. The insights contribute to broader efforts aimed at improving teacher satisfaction and professional growth in Nepal's education system.