Experiences of Elementary Teachers in Coping with the Demands of Pupil Journalism
Ria Biong Taripe
Discipline: Education
Abstract:
Pupil journalism in elementary education offers a unique platform for developing pupils’ writing, critical thinking,
and communication skills. However, the responsibility of guiding young journalists presents teachers with distinct
challenges. This study explored the experiences of elementary teachers in coping the demands of pupil journalism,
with a focus on perceived benefits, encountered challenges, and employed coping strategies. It employed a concurrent
mixed-methods design, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously from selected elementary
teachers in the Malimono District, Surigao del Norte Division. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency count,
weighted mean, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA for repeated measures, while qualitative responses
underwent thematic analysis. Findings revealed that teachers perceive their involvement in pupil journalism as
yielding major professional benefits, including enhanced teaching effectiveness, improved media and technological
literacy, and opportunities for leadership and promotion. At the same time, they reported significant challenges—
particularly role conflict, emotional strain, limited training, and pupils' language deficiencies—with the overall
difficulty level categorized as “Challenging.” To cope, teachers used both problem-focused and emotion-focused
strategies such as self-directed learning, peer collaboration, mentoring, and emotional support. Emerging themes
included teacher empowerment, fulfillment in pupil success, and the transformative potential of journalism on teacher
identity and classroom practice. These findings highlight the critical need for institutional support, structured training,
and policy reforms to sustain and empower journalism teachers in pupil journalism programs.
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