Tracer Study and Employment of the Teacher Education Graduates of a University in North Luzon, Philippines

Abstract

The quality of education is measured by the employment and establishment of sustainable career paths for graduates. Tracer studies allow higher education institutions to generate integrated data on their graduates' employment while also reflecting the quality of education they provide. This study traced the employment profile of the 2018 Teacher Education graduates at a University in North Luzon, Philippines. It also analyzed the graduates' suggestions about the curriculum and selected employers' feedback. The study utilized the descriptive-survey method of research, questionnaire, and interviews. Results showed that most respondents are 21 years old, female-dominated, single, and passed the licensure examination for teachers and the Civil Service Professional Examination. More than half of the employed respondents landed their first teaching job within six months after graduation in private schools, handling course-related subjects as contractual/provisional and receiving low salaries. Self-employed and unemployed graduates are waiting for job opportunities to exercise their careers in public schools. English communication, professional and significant subjects closely related to effective teaching and learning are essential to them after graduation. Provision for better facilities and equipment, curriculum emphasizing the development of 21st-century skills, exposure to lesson plans and school forms preparation, and presence of specialized teachers to handle major subjects are recommendations to improve the curriculum. Similarly, employers suggested better classroom management, reporting, and personal and professional skills development for the graduates.