Unveiling the Dynamic Landscape of Job Satisfaction: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Teachers in Public and Private Colleges

Abstract

Workplace satisfaction plays a crucial role in enhancing job performance and overall productivity. This study aimed to investigate and compare the factors influencing job satisfaction among private and public college teachers in District Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan. The research focused on understanding the distinct elements contributing to job contentment within these educational sectors. The study population encompassed all private and public college teachers in District Bhakkar. A sample of 346 college instructors participated, comprising 201 from public colleges and 145 from private colleges. This quantitative research utilized a self-developed questionnaire employing a 5-point Likert scale to collect primary data. The findings revealed a notable difference in job satisfaction levels between public and private college teachers. Public college teachers reported higher levels of satisfaction in areas such as job autonomy, respect, recognition, salaries, personal growth, promotions, and job training, compared to their counterparts in private colleges. Interestingly, there was no significant disparity in job satisfaction perceptions between male and female college teachers. Based on these results, it is recommended that initiatives be undertaken by owners or management of private colleges to enhance teachers’ self-recognition, respect, job autonomy, salaries, rewards, personal growth and development opportunities, promotions, training provisions, and job security. Such measures can potentially improve overall job satisfaction among private college teachers, consequently enhancing their performance and job engagement. Keywords: Job Satisfaction, Intrinsic Factors, Extrinsic Factors, Education, Job Satisfaction Scale, Teacher, Student