Teacher Motivation: A Factor Affecting Persistency in Profession

Abstract

                The purposes of this paper are to explore and disseminate the theory of motivation in terms of teacher motivation and its impact on education in general and in developing countries. It includes the notions of teacher motivation in three dimensions regarding teachers’ job commitment, job satisfaction and performance competency based on three motivational theories, namely Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory; Self-Determination Theory; and Herzberg’s Two-factor Theory. This paper also provides factual teacher responses which are obtained from the author’s discussion with teacher colleagues to gain better perspectives and understanding of teacher motivation. It is no exaggeration to claim that teacher motivation is a critical variable in the success of teaching and learning process both for students and teachers themselves. It is expected that this paper can contribute to more effective education as well as better school systems. In addition, it will be beneficial if more research and studies on teacher motivation in the realms of motivational theories are carried out. The data from these studies will then be used to find out what really motivate teachers and how they can improve their motivation for more effective teaching and learning process and outcomes.