Examine the Problems Faced by New Educators at Elementary Level in District Bahawalpur

Abstract

The present study explored the issues of new teachers at elementary schools of District Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan. The aims were: to examine the issues which teachers encounter while teaching, to discuss the causes of these issues, to look at the effects of additional responsibilities and to recommend solutions to those issues. The study adopted descriptive survey design using a five-point Likert scale questionnaire measuring classroom issues, social factors, challenges in curriculum, teacher transfer policies, convenience, extra duties, administrative support, school infrastructure and implementation of policies with 340 teachers (186 males and 154 females). The results indicated that elementary teachers encounter several interrelated problems such as the problems of classrooms shortage, teacher shortage, psychological stress, language barrier, curriculum pressure, low participation from parents, transportation problems, too much extra burden and insufficient professional development. Based on the results of the study, the authors recommend comprehensive institutional changes, supportive leadership, sufficient resources for schools and teacher-friendly policies that would help to solve the problem of new teachers in the institution.