Mixed-methods study reveals key drivers of retention and attrition among early career English teachers, indicating salary and autonomy dictate career decisions.
Key Points
To determine how job satisfaction impacts the retention and attrition trajectories of early career teachers of English in higher education.
Conducted a mixed-methods study utilizing a close-ended questionnaire survey among university teachers (n = 100).
Gathered qualitative data through semi-structured interviews (n = 20) and focus group discussions (n = 6) and analyzed responses using thematic analysis.
Identified three primary employment challenges: salary and fringe benefits, job security, and teacher autonomy and working conditions.
Salary and teacher autonomy exerted strong to moderate effects on retention, whereas working conditions showed a neutral impact on career decisions.
Job security varied substantially between public and private institutions, with salary and fringe benefits playing a dual role in both retention and attrition.