Sustaining Motivation and Preventing Burnout: A Study of English Teachers in Turkey

Mgr. Tugba Cakir

Master's thesis

Abstract:

This thesis examines what English teachers consider when choosing their profession. If the motivations for deciding on this profession are examined, ways to keep them in the profession may also be found. This study presents whether motivation and burnout go together and how teachers can be protected from burnout while keeping motivation high. Employing qualitative methods, two focus groups with a total of eight teachers were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings highlighted the importance of sharing with colleagues, professional development, and personal resilience tactics. Additionally, the analysis emphasizes how preventing burnout enhances not only individual well-being but also the overall quality of education. This study provides insight for policymakers and teachers. If action is taken and these predictions are taken into account, teachers' motivation can be kept high and the risk of possible burnout can be reduced. By addressing burnout prevention and fostering motivation, this research underscores the importance of sustaining teachers' commitment to their role in creating a better environment for learning.

Keywords

motivation, burnout, teaching efficacy, English, pedagogy

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 11. 12. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 5. 2. 2025
• Supervisor: doc. Mgr. Světlana Hanušová, Ph.D.
• Reader: Mgr. Jana Chocholatá, Ph.D.

Masaryk University

Faculty of Education

Master programme / field:
Lower Secondary School English Language Teacher Training / Lower Secondary School English Language Teacher Training