Conflict and Collaboration: Co-Teaching Dynamics in Bilingual Private Schools

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological inquiry aimed to explore the intricacies of conflict within the educational landscape, specifically focusing on its manifestation within the realm of private schools. The resultant dataset covered the perspectives of 37 teachers and four administrators through semi-structured interviews. This investigation leveraged the transformative power of in-depth interviews, engaging both co-teachers and school administrators, to unveil the layers of complexity hidden beneath the surface. The data analysis followed a series of thematic coding stages. The multifaceted findings uncovered a paradoxical landscape within the practice of co-teaching. While the practice itself was recognized as invaluable, a tapestry of conflicting issues emerged that warrant careful consideration. The salient points of discord that surfaced encompassed themes such avoidance of responsibility, inability to adapt to practice, not knowing the system, the partners paying more attention to their branch, intense program, lack of communication and different educational philosophies. Finally, a notable difference in perception arose: teachers often credited conflict resolution to the effectiveness of their administrators, whereas administrators leaned towards the idea that it depended on the competence of their fellow teachers. While teachers pushed for more in-service training and workshops, administrators argued that they already offer sufficient training opportunities. These results underscore the intricate dynamics within the education system. To facilitate successful co-teaching, both teachers and administrators must grasp this approach thoroughly.