Thai teachers with low/high burnout and their perceptions of teaching with Special Education Needs (SEN)

Yotanyamaneewong, Saengduean (2012). Thai teachers with low/high burnout and their perceptions of teaching with Special Education Needs (SEN). University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The primary aim of this study is to examine the phenomenon of burnout among teachers of pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and how this phenomenon relates to a) teacher's career motivations; b) teacher's career motivations in relation to teaching pupils with SEN; c)
their perceptions of positive and/or negative aspects of teaching pupils with SEN, and d) teachers' use of coping strategies. The data were collected from SEN teachers working in ChiangMai province (Thailand) using the burnout inventory, questionnaires, and semistructured interviews. Two groups of teachers were identified as having the lowest and highest levels of burnout. Sixteen from each group were interviewed and the data analyzed using five categories adapted from Maslow's hierarchy of needs- physiological, safety, belongingness, esteem, and self-actualisation.

The main findings show that the two groups share similar perceptions in terms of the positive aspects of teaching pupils with SEN. However they differ in their motivations to teach regular pupils and pupils with SEN. The research also delves into the negative aspects of teaching
pupils with SEN, and the coping strategies they used when experiencing stressful situations. Based on the five categories, esteem and self-actualization are seen to play a bigger role in differentiating the two groups. As a result, promoting teachers' esteem and self-actualization
will be crucial in maintaining or increasing their efficiency. The findings suggest that this can be achieved by enhancing these teachers' skills which will subsequently raise their confidence. Other suggestions include recognizing their performance and providing opportunities for them to be more effective in performing their duties.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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