Title: Navigating New Horizons: Cultural Adaptation of Filipino Early Childhood Educators Abroad
Authors: Trisha Joy C. Canlas, Cindy D. Cortez, Raiza S. Suba, Hannah May P. Tapang, Ma. Mikaela C. Tungol, Rose Lynn D. Villanueva
Volume: 9
Issue: 4
Pages: 328-342
Publication Date: 2025/04/28
Abstract:
A particularly leading problem that Filipino Early Childhood Educators (FCE) face is cultural adaptation. This qualitative study explored the various experiences and strategies that Filipino Early Childhood Educators (FCE) employed in foreign countries as they adapted into new cultures and examined how such adaptations influenced their teaching practices. Nine (9) participants in different countries were subjected to in-depth interviews that evoked some common themes, such as cultural challenges, supportive systems, and coping strategies. The stress and adjustment problems are profound in non-English-speaking countries. Participants actually fell short but were able to take time to bounce-back and develop their personal lives, while appreciating cultural differences. Institutional support, professional development workshops, and mentoring initiatives, combined with good work relationships developed with local colleagues and Filipino communities, helped them adjust. The reasons to work abroad were career progression, personal betterment, financial stability, along with family support. Findings suggest that the adaptation process of FCE is a result of intrinsic motivation at its best, proficient coping mechanisms, along with external supportive systems, all of which contribute to their success in attaining professional achievement as well as personal growth in different international contexts.