A study to identify the factors responsible for job dissatisfaction and low teacher morale

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between teacher job satisfaction and job performance, and whether teacher attitudes about the job impacted their productivity on the job. This study included a comprehensive review and critical analysis of research and literature concerning teacher attitudes and morale, job satisfaction, and job performance. Conclusions were drawn and recommendations were made to the local teacher bargaining unit and school board to help improve the overall school climate and working relationships within the school district. Research suggested that teacher attitudes have a significant impact on the job performance of teachers and also the academic performance of their students. It also linked job satisfaction to job performance and indicated that administrators have a significant impact on the school environment, and the type of environment that they create is highly predictive of the level of job satisfaction for the teaching staff. Healthy school cultures correlated strongly with both increased student achievement and with teacher productivity and job satisfaction, while low levels of satisfaction and morale can cause decreased productivity and can ultimately result in teacher burnout. There is no doubt that working to maintain or improve the morale of the teaching staff plays an important role in creating and maintaining an environment that is conducive to learning. In order to improve the quality of instruction and improve student performance in our schools, the research indicated that creating or establishing a positive school culture is an excellent place to start.