Teaching Engagement in Basic Education: The Roles of Financial Literacy and Prospects for Career Advancement

Leizel Jean S. Basman, MAED ^1*, & James L. Paglinawan, Ph.D.²
¹Teacher III, Lumbo Integrated School, Department of Education, Philippines
²Professor, Department of Professional Education, Central Mindanao University, Philippines
DOI – http://doi.org/10.37502/IJSMR.2025.81039

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between financial literacy, career advancement prospects, and teaching engagement among public elementary school teachers in the Division of Valencia City for the school year 2025-2026. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 252 teachers across five schools through validated questionnaires measuring financial literacy (knowledge, behavior, attitude, education and training), career advancement prospects (promotion, professional development, job security, recognition and support), and teaching engagement (cognitive, emotional, behavioral, social). Statistical analyses included means, Pearson correlation, and regression to explore levels, relationships, and predictors of teaching engagement. Results revealed that teachers reported high financial literacy and positive career advancement outlooks, with strong engagement observed across all dimensions. Both financial literacy and career advancement prospects showed significant positive correlations with teaching engagement, with career advancement prospect demonstrating stronger associations. Regression analysis identified financial knowledge, professional development opportunities, and recognition and support as the best predictors of teaching engagement, accounting for about 34% of the variance. Unexpectedly, financial knowledge and professional development showed a slight negative beta, suggesting nuanced dynamics in how these factors impact engagement. The findings underscore the importance of supporting teachers through financial literacy programs, career development opportunities, and strong recognition systems to sustain high engagement levels.

Keywords: Financial knowledge, Professional development opportunities, recognition and support.

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