A Survey of Job Satisfaction in ESL: TESOL Members Respond to the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire

Abstract

This paper reports on an international survey of job satisfaction in ESL based on a mailing of the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire to 100 randomly selected TESOL members. Demographic data from 32 respondents, approximately one-fifth from outside the U.S. and its possessions, indicate a sampling consistent with other demographic studies on TESOL members. Survey data from the respondents demonstrates a moderate level of overall job satisfaction and a pattern of attitudes towards individual job facets similar to that of comparison groups of American K-6 and Taiwanese K-12 teachers. The TESOL group reports most satisfaction in the categories of moral values and social service aspects of their work. Results of the survey show the least satisfaction obtaining in the categories of opportunities for advancement, compensation for work performed, and administrative policies and practices.