Lived Experiences of Filipino Preschool Teachers Working Abroad

Abstract: This qualitative phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of Filipino preschool teachers working abroad. The study involved interviews with six conversation partners, and the resulting insights were organized into three overarching themes: Adaptability, Sociability and Coping Strategies. Despite initial challenges, the teachers demonstrated resilience in integrating into the local culture and curriculum, facing difficulties such as teaching special children, language barriers, and pandemic-related issues. They maintained positive relationships with colleagues regardless of nationality, emphasizing the significance of professional development, cultural understanding, adaptation to local norms, collaboration, cross-cultural communication, trust-building, language acquisition, and self-care in diverse educational settings. Keywords: Filipino Preschool teachers, lived experiences, working abroad