GROUP REFLECTION

As a group of four, we came together to brainstorm a topic on manpower sustainability. We have felt strongly for the topic due to the challenges we faced in our internship from the lack in manpower. It was difficult accommodating the absence of other teachers. All four of us were keen to find ways to encourage educators to stay in the industry as it would be relevant to us in the future. With that in mind, we came up with multiple inquiry questions before deciding on, “What encourages educators to stay in the industry?”.

 

Through our findings from conducting interviews and surveys, we found that a major component of the reasons why educators leave is fueled by the stress of heavy workload and the need for a stronger support system. We were inspired by the ways and stories the principal had implemented in retaining the staff. We were then faced with an obstacle as we realised the principal’s methods were effective and there seemed to be no issue with their manpower sustainability. They had sufficient teachers and an even more sufficient supply of teachers from the headquarters.

 

Endless hours was put into researching ideas on how to sustain the manpower but it was unfruitful as all of the findings were already implemented. With the reassurance of our lecturer and peers, we decided to find ways to reinforce the methods implemented and generate ideas on how to improve them. The research consumed much of our time. Thus, we learnt to be more flexible and have an open-mind when facing challenges.

 

In addition, an important take-away from this project is that a good support system and bond with the staff  is crucial in a workplace, no matter what occupation. The project exposed us to the benefits of a supportive environment and it inspired us to find an appreciative and encouraging centre to work in the future.