Brief Description

 This study investigated the employment experiences of 32 Early Childhood Education (ECED) and Special Needs Education (SNED) graduates of Mariano Marcos State University–College of Teacher Education who graduated between 2015 and 2019. Using a descriptive qualitative research design, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews to explore the challenges graduates faced in finding employment during the global crisis, the opportunities that emerged despite these difficulties, and the resilience strategies they employed. Guided by Career Construction Theory and Resilience Theory, the study analyzed participants' narratives through thematic analysis to understand how graduates adapted to changing labor market conditions and employment demands. 

Expected Output

The study is expected to produce:

  •  A comprehensive database of information on the challenges and opportunities encountered by ECED and SNED graduates during the global crisis. 
  •  Identified themes related to employment challenges, employment opportunities, and resilience strategies among graduates. 
  •  Evidence-based insights that can help Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) strengthen graduate employability, career readiness, adaptability, and resilience-building programs. 
  •  Recommendations for enhancing career guidance services, professional development initiatives, and support systems for graduates. 
  •  A reference for policymakers, educational leaders, and future researchers in developing interventions and policies that support graduate employability and workforce resilience during times of crisis.