Factors influencing job satisfaction among public primary schools teachers in Kenya: A case of Mombasa municipality

Abstract

Low job satisfaction among teachers is thought to be a problem that results into teachers resigning from the teaching profession and poor performance outcome. Information on factors influencing job satisfaction is important if appropriate policies are to be implemented to enhance job satisfaction among teachers in public primary schools. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the extent to which variables such as compensation, recognition, work conditions, supervision and training influence job satisfaction and finally determine the factors that the teachers consider most important in influencing negatively or positively their overall job satisfaction. In literature review the researcher looked at some of the theories that explain job satisfaction. These include; Maslow hierarchy of needs, Hertzberg two factor theory and Existence relatedness and growth theory. The study design was descriptive. The researcher used stratified random sampling by grouping the teachers by zones, and then took a simple random sample from each zone. Out of the 1455 teachers found in Mombasa Municipality 145 teachers were sampled out. Questionnaires were used to collect data which was analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. This was presented in tables, charts and graphs. The study findings showed that most teachers were satisfied with recognition from their immediate bosses but were dissatisfied with compensation. Most teachers felt that promotional procedures needed to be streamlined to avoid biases. On the overall majority of the teachers were satisfied.