Balancing act: A phenomenological study on lived experiences of teachers in calbayog city, Philippines

Abstract

This research study employed a Phenomenological Research Design to identify and explore the duties encompassed in the workday of a college teacher. This study was anchored on the following theories: Wickens’ Multiple Resources Theory, Juran’s 80/20 Theory and Parkinson’s Law. From the data analyses and upon utilization of a semi-structured interview and subsequent implementation of the Colaizzi Process, three major themes emerged: (1) Chrono-Juggling; (2) Impact and Sacrifices; and (3) Finding Inspiration and Inducement. The result showed that these teachers experienced a difficult time balancing roles inside and outside the school. They commonly end up spending most of their time at schools and related activities sacrificing personal moments. It is recommended that the institution should provide support and development program for the college teachers especially in areas that provides options that balance personal and professional time.