A Mixed-Method Study on the Work Ethics of Pre-School Teachers in Public Schools: Insights from Digos City Division

The study’s main objective is to assess the work ethics of preschool teachers in public schools in Digos City Division. This utilized the mixed method design, Phase 1 as Quantitative segment involved preschool teachers in the public schools in Digos City Division, while Phase 2 as Qualitative segment, performed in-depth interviews. The self-made questionnaire underwent pilot testing on 20 sample random respondents to test its reliability. The questionnaires were personally delivered to the respondents after passing the reliability test. Based on the data collected, the demographic profile of preschool teachers, in terms of age, mostly are within the 26 to 30-year age group; in terms of gender, females are dominant; in terms of length of service, most are within the 10 to 13-year service. In terms of educational attainment, I mainly obtained MA Units. Moreover, the level of work ethics of preschool teachers in the public schools in Digos City obtained a very high descriptive rating. Further, data showed no relationship between age, length of service, and work ethic. However, there is a strong association between gender, educational attainment, and work ethic. In the qualitative phase, the essential themes drawn from the transcripts on preschool teachers’ perception of work ethics were: high degree of professionalism, inclusivity and equality, respect for diversity, and honesty and fairness. As a learning insight, the researcher concurs with the importance of work ethics and upholding high ethical standards in teaching.