Date of Publication

4-2025

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Teaching Major in Chemistry

Subject Categories

Teacher Education and Professional Development

College

Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education

Department/Unit

Science Education

Thesis Advisor

Frederick Torralballa Talaue

Defense Panel Chair

Lydia S. Roleda

Defense Panel Member

Voltaire Mallari Mistades
Teresita T. Rungduin

Abstract/Summary

This study examines the professional identity development of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professionals transitioning into teaching, grounded in a sociocultural view of identity as dynamic and relational. While second-career STEM educators bring valuable industry expertise to enhance instruction, their transition involves complex identity negotiations and pedagogical adaptations, areas insufficiently explored in existing literature. Employing a mixed-methods design integrating narrative inquiry and quantitative analysis based on expectancy-value theory, data were gathered through semi- structured interviews, classroom observations, and survey analysis using the Factors Influencing Teaching Choice (FIT-Choice) scale. (1) pursuit of professional purpose beyond technical expertise, (2) tensions in identity reconstruction, (3) integration of STEM industry knowledge into pedagogy, (4) institutional influences on sustaining vocational commitment, and (5) evolving instructional agency and reflective pedagogy. The study highlights how second-career STEM educators navigate instructional, institutional, and cultural challenges, emphasizing identity integration and institutional belonging. Recommendations stress targeted support structures and professional development that embrace, rather than resolve, inherent tensions of career transformation.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Career development; Identity (Psychology); Science teachers

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Embargo Period

4-21-2028

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Available for download on Friday, April 21, 2028

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