Teamwork, moral sensitivity, and work engagement among employees in a government higher education institution

BACKGROUND: Although higher education institutions (HEIs) are expected to contribute much in the larger communities, it cannot be denied that the employees have the qualities and characteristics with genuine interest to help the institution, other individuals, and the communities surrounding them. Studying teamwork, moral sensitivity, and work engagement is essential in determining how they affected with the organizational management, training of students, and achieving the goals of the college. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the level of teamwork, moral sensitivity, and work engagement and the relationship between them among faculty members, school administrators, and supporting staff in a government HEI in the Philippines. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed involving 49 employees in a government HEI. Three self-report scales were used in gathering the data: TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Perceptions Questionnaire, Ethical Sensitivity Scale, and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s rho correlations, point biserial correlations, and eta correlations. RESULTS: Participants reported high levels of perceived teamwork, moral sensitivity, and work engagement. Marital status was significantly and positively correlated with moral sensitivity and work engagement, whereas employment status was significantly and positively correlated with teamwork and moral sensitivity. Moreover, moral sensitivity was significantly and positively correlated with teamwork and work engagement. CONCLUSIONS: College employees who reported high levels of moral sensitivity are associated with high levels of teamwork and work engagement. Strategies to maintain and enhance teamwork, moral sensitivity, and work engagement are recommended through various activities such as team-building workshops, staff development, and/or leadership trainings.