Assessing the Impact of Teacher Competency and Engagement on Job Satisfaction through the Lens of Teacher-Student Interaction

This study investigates the interplay between teacher competency, teacher engagement, job satisfaction, and the moderating role of teacher-student interaction among public high school teachers in the Binmaley 1 District, Philippines. The primary aim was to explore how these factors contribute to teachers’ overall job satisfaction, a critical determinant for retention and performance in the education sector. Teacher competency, including expertise in subject knowledge, teaching methods, and classroom management, was positively correlated with job satisfaction. Teachers who felt confident in their skills reported higher satisfaction, highlighting the importance of professional development in improving teaching effectiveness. Teacher engagement, characterized by enthusiasm, dedication, and motivation, was also a significant predictor of job satisfaction. Teachers who were more engaged in their work, including making an effort to improve their teaching practices and staying energized by their roles, experienced greater satisfaction. Furthermore, the study identified teacher-student interaction as a key moderating factor. The analysis revealed that positive interactions with students not only contributed independently to job satisfaction but also amplified the positive effects of both teacher competency and engagement. Hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated that teacher competency alone accounted for a substantial variance in job satisfaction, but the inclusion of teacher-student interaction significantly improved the model, highlighting its role in enhancing the relationship between teaching practices and satisfaction. Similarly, teacher engagement showed a strong direct effect on job satisfaction, which was further enhanced by the quality of teacher-student interactions. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of ensuring positive teacher-student relationships, enhancing teacher competency, and promoting teacher engagement to improve job satisfaction. These insights are crucial for policymakers and educators aiming to improve teacher well-being, professional development, and the overall quality of education in the Philippines.