Systematic review of teacher attrition rates and their far-reaching implications on STEM education in the context of Society 5.0

Teacher attrition in STEM education poses significant challenges in the era of Society 5.0, where the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high. In this systematic review, we examined the primary factors contributing to teacher attrition rates in STEM education within the context of Society 5.0, alongside its implications for the overall quality of STEM education. Through a comprehensive analysis of 110 articles, 28 were deemed fit for review, addressing key questions regarding the factors influencing attrition, its impact on education quality, and the extent of external influences such as societal expectations, technological advancements, and industry demands. Our findings highlight the multifaceted nature of teacher attrition, emphasizing factors such as job satisfaction, opportunities for career advancement, and external pressures. Furthermore, this review underscores the significant impact of teacher attrition on the quality of STEM education. Additionally, external factors such as societal expectations and industry demands intersect to shape educators' career decisions, influencing their overall satisfaction and propensity to remain in the profession. The implications for policymakers include increased investment in teacher support programs, addressing salary disparities, promoting collaborative school environments, integrating technological resources, and advocating for policies that promote diversity and inclusion. Despite teacher attrition being a global issue, there is a significant lack of research from Asian countries. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into addressing teacher attrition in STEM education within the era of Society 5.0, offering a framework to promote STEM teacher retention and actionable recommendations to promote retention and enhance the quality of STEM education.