From Values to Practice: Teachers' Solutions to Sustainable Financial Stability

Abstract

Background: This qualitative study explores why public-school teachers in Bangkok and its vicinity take on secondary jobs and articulates the value orientations that should be promoted to underpin their sustainable household financial stability. Objectives: (1) investigate the underlying causes that influence government teachers’ decisions to pursue supplementary occupations, and (2) articulate the essential value orientations that should be promoted for these teachers to uphold to achieve sustainable financial security. Methods: The research employed a qualitative methodology, focusing on government teachers in Bangkok and surrounding provinces. Key informants were selected using purposive sampling and comprised eight civil servant teachers with supplementary jobs and five qualified doctoral-level experts. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The sample size of 13 key informants was deemed sufficient as data saturation—where no new themes or information emerged from subsequent interviews—was achieved for both objectives. Data analysis utilized content analysis, and findings are presented in a descriptive narrative. Results: The research results were found as follows:

1. Causes for Supplementary Occupations: Teachers pursue second jobs primarily due to economic problems and financial burdens, including insufficient living expenses, high cost of living, and debt obligations. The drive stems from both the need to address the lack of basic necessities and the desire to enhance their quality of life, family welfare, or professional self-development, by utilizing skills and knowledge that comply with civil servant regulations.
2. Values for Sustainable Financial Security: Six core values should be fostered: sufficiency, self-reliance, financial discipline, financial planning, saving and investment, and systematic debt management. Conclusions: The findings are beneficial for all government sectors, offering guidance to develop policies and programs that assist and promote government school teachers in achieving appropriate financial management and supporting sustainable educational institution administration.