Factors affecting secondary schools teachers’ motivation in the Elliotdale Circuit, South Africa

Abstract

This study examines factors affecting teachers’ motivation at secondary schools in the Elliotdale Circuit. The research approach adopted was qualitative. The design used was a case study. The purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample size of twenty-two (22) respondents, which comprised principals, teachers, subject advisors and teacher union representatives. Face-to-face interviews were conducted while data collected were analysed thematically. Findings revealed inadequate teacher-learner support materials in schools, non-payment of temporary teachers’ salaries, lack of access roads to and from schools, lack of secured accommodations for teachers, poverty and lack of electricity and running water in some schools were the factors affecting teachers’ job satisfaction and motivation in the secondary schools. Some recommendations were: School Governing Body to work with the Department of Education to provide schools with adequate teacher-learner support materials, to ensure regular and competitive salaries for teachers, to implement rural allowances for teachers and to provide teachers with secured accommodations, electricity and running water.

Keywords: Motivation, job dissatisfaction, professionalism, working condition.

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