Beyond the Blackboard: Unveiling the Diverse Career Landscape of Education Graduates

Abstract

This tracer study aimed to investigate the demographic, academic, and employment profile of 202 Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) graduates of Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), Philippines from A.Y 2016-2019. This study employed a quantitative approach with data collected through a modified questionnaire modeled from the Philippines’ Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Graduate Tracer Study. The findings showed that most graduates passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers and worked full-time, however, were underemployed. Most graduates acquired their first job in less than a year, but not in the field of education. The respondents found learned skills in communication, knowledge and technical, leadership, human relations, and ICT useful in the workplace to a great extent. However, research and problem-solving skills were found to be useful to a moderate extent. Among the difficulties faced by BEED graduates in finding a job, the limited job vacancies in the teaching profession or the lack of positions or permanent items in public elementary schools was pointed out as a major problem. The university is recommended to establish a dedicated unit for conducting regular tracer studies, integrate it into the college's quality assurance system, and strengthen partnerships with local employment offices and the private sector to ensure job opportunities for graduates. The Teacher Education Department may review and enhance its curriculum to align with the current demands of the teaching profession in public and private schools, both for local and international employment.