Lived Experiences of Social Studies Teachers in Teaching Global Citizenship Education in Junior High School: A Phenomenological Approach
Lived Experiences of Social Studies Teachers in Teaching Global Citizenship Education in Junior High School: A Phenomenological Approach
Volume: 22
Issue 7
Pages: 772-785
Document ID: 2024PEMJ2098
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.12867265
Manuscript Accepted: 06-20-2024
Psych Educ, 2024, 22(7): 772-785, Document ID:2024PEMJ2098, doi:10.5281/zenodo.12867265, ISSN 2822-4353
Research Article
Lived Experiences of Social Studies Teachers in Teaching Global Citizenship Education in Junior
High School: A Phenomenological Approach
Lhea Gracielle B. Victa, Joseph A. Asuncion, Ligaya Z. Del Rosario, Liningning B. De Castro,
Vivian I. Buhain, Luzale D. Henson
For affiliations and correspondence, see the last page.
Abstract
This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of five junior high school teachers teaching
GCE at Judge Juan Luna High School. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews and analyzed
using Moustakas' transcendental phenomenological approach. This study was anchored on Social Constructivism and
Transformative Learning theory. The findings revealed that teachers viewed GCE as an educational process that
fosters responsible global citizens exhibiting tolerance, respect, and belonging to the global community. GCE concepts
were seen as part of the broader Social Studies curriculum taught through an interdisciplinary lens. Teachers observed
positive transformations in students, such as increased empathy, critical thinking, and community engagement.
However, challenges included limited student interest, navigating sensitive topics, lack of resources, and overcoming
cultural barriers. Teachers employed strategies like interactive methods, contextualizing lessons, and student-centered
learning to engage students in GCE. The study highlighted the need for professional development, training,
contextualized materials, and collaboration to enhance GCE instruction effectively. Teachers expressed hopes for
GCE to nurture equality, peace, critical thinking, and active global citizenship among diverse individuals. The
implications emphasize comprehensive training, curriculum integration, innovative assessments, community
involvement, and promoting cultural sensitivity to prepare responsible global citizens.
Keywords: global citizenship education, junior high school teachers, lived-experiences, social studies
Introduction
Global Citizenship Education refers to an educational approach that emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and a sense
of shared humanity. It involves teaching students about global issues such as poverty alleviation, climate change mitigation, and human
rights advocacy across cultures and borders (Witt 2022). It goes beyond traditional subject-specific instruction by focusing on
developing critical thinking skills, empathy, cultural competence, and ethical awareness among students (Wijanarko, 2020). Cultivating
these qualities within students' minds from an early age through education systems worldwide could contribute to shaping responsible
global citizens.
Education plays a crucial role in promoting global citizenship by developing individuals' sense of responsibility for groups at local,
national, and global levels. It also fosters an understanding of the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental change at
national and international levels. (Zahra, 2022). According to (Andrews, K., & Aydin, H., 2020), in the United States, they were
constantly recognized as the foundation upon which they advocated for the necessity of global citizenship education in the pre-K-12
curriculum, as well as how it should be introduced into the curriculum and applied in the classroom. The participants in the current
study recognized changing societal demands for transforming from local citizenry to global citizenry as a response to increased diversity
in United States schools and students needing tools and resources to become productive and proactive citizens in a global society.
Moreover, the Philippines' Department of Education (DepEd) plans to incorporate global citizenship topics into its MATATAG
curriculum. MATATAG Curriculum means make the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active, and responsible citizens, take
steps to accelerate the delivery of basic education services and provision of facilities, take good care of learners by promoting learner
well-being, inclusive education , and a positive learning environment, and lastly, give support for teachers to teach better. The Bureau
of Curriculum Development is updating the curriculum to align with international curricula, including integrating global citizenship
education. The job market is evolving, necessitating the development of 21st-century skills like creativity, critical thinking,
collaboration, and emotional and digital intelligence. As learners become more globally connected, they develop cultural awareness
and global citizenship skills, but also face international crises, causing anxiety. The importance of lifelong learning and resilience is
growing, and education systems must foster adaptive learning environments. An improved curriculum integrates contemporary topics,
cultivates 21st-century skills like critical thinking and digital literacy, and promotes flexibility and adaptability. It also enhances
inclusivity by teaching about global citizenship and diversity, promoting a future-oriented mindset. This empowers learners to become
future leaders. (Republic of the Philippines Department of Education Bureau of Curriculum Development, 2023).
Teachers are identified as crucial actors in global citizenship education, playing a pivotal role in helping students become engaged and
transformational global citizens. (Khalid et al., 2022). However, teacher’s understanding and awareness of global citizenship education
vary considerably (Karatekin, 2022). The challenges faced by teachers in implementing global citizenship education within the social
studies curriculum are multi-faceted. Firstly, time constraints pose a significant challenge as teachers are often required to cover a vast
amount of content within limited class hours. This allows little room for integrating additional topics related to global issues (Lukman,
2021). Secondly, inadequate access to suitable teaching resources is another obstacle that hinders effective implementation. Without
proper materials and tools that address global perspectives, teachers struggle to create engaging lessons that foster students'
understanding of the interconnectedness and promote critical thinking (Wijanarko, 2020). Finally, limited professional development
opportunities focused on enhancing teachers.
Upon analyzing the relevant literature, studies have been conducted on the concept of global citizenship and global citizenship
education at primary school, middleschool, secondary school, and later periods. One research was conducted with eight Early
Childhood Education students and ten Health Sciences students regarding Service-Learning as Global Citizenship Education: Acting
Locally on Global Challenges and Concerns (Adarlo, 2020). However, few such study has examined junior high school teachers'
perspectives on the concept of global citizenship and has been published. In Judge Juan Luna High School, they are the ones in charge
of fostering a sense of global citizenship among the students. Therefore, it is crucial to ascertain their opinions on the subject. The
findings of this study will guide additional research.
Research Questions
The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological approach was to explore the lived experiences of Social Studies teachers in
teaching Global Citizenship Education in Junior High School at Judge Juan Luna High School, Quezon City. This stage in the research
teaching Global Citizenship Education generally defined as an approach to education that helps individuals develop the skills,
knowledge, and values they need to become active, responsible, and responsive citizens who contribute to building more peaceful, just,
and sustainable societies. Specifically, this study answered the following questions:
1. What are the lived experiences of junior high school teachers teaching global citizenship education?
2. What are the participants' approaches to challenges and problems?
3. How were the insights drawn from the study enhanced the teaching-learning process in implementing Global Citizenship
Education?
Methodology
Research Design
This study used a qualitative transcendental phenomenological design to have a brief description of experience and reflection on
teaching Global Citizenship Education in Social Studies in junior high school classes. Their feelings would be explored and explained
through descriptive phenomenology. Qualitative research is a type of study that digs deeper into issues in the actual world by gathering
participant experiences, perceptions, and actions (Tenny et. al., 2022). This study aimed to address the concerns and other flexible
questions relating to teaching Global Citizenship Education in Social Studies in junior high school classes. On its essence, qualitative
research asks open-ended questions like "how" and "why," whose answers are difficult to quantify.
Phenomenological research focused on discovering the significance that people attribute to their experiences and exploring the essence
of human experiences. It does not impose ideas or explanations; instead, it aims to capture the core components and underlying
structures of these experiences. To hear and document secondary educators’ experiences with global education, the researcher selected
a qualitative transcendental phenomenological methodology for this study (Moustakas, 1994). Grounding the methodology in Husserl’s
philosophical tradition that reality can be discovered only after transcending experience (Kafle, 2013), Moustakas (1994) sought “to
see phenomena through unclouded glasses, thereby allowing the true meaning of phenomena to naturally emerge with and within their
own identity” (Sheehan, 2014, p. 10). Thus, transcendental phenomenology is “focused less on the interpretations of the researcher and
more on a description of the experiences of participants” (Creswell & Poth, 2018, p. 78). Additionally, transcendental phenomenology
requires that researchers bracket out their own biases and experiences with the phenomenon being studied to gain a pure understanding
of the phenomenon as described by the participant (Moustakas, 1994).
Participants
The sample participants of the study were five Social Studies teachers teaching GCE. They were selected using purposive sampling to
meticulously select the participants. According to Frost, 2022, purposive sampling is a non-probability technique where researchers
select particular participants who will help the study achieve its objectives by using their experience. The researchers must consider
these participants' unique traits when assessing their research question.
The researcher purposely selected five (5) participants who actively teach Global Citizenship Education in Social Studies in junior high
school classes at Judge Juan Luna High School based on the criteria to gather quality insights. In other words, units are selected “on
purpose” in purposive sampling. This sampling strategy, also known as judgemental sampling, focuses on the researcher's judgment in
identifying and selecting individuals, cases, or events that can provide the greatest amount of information to accomplish the study's
objectives.
Instruments
The researcher used three different methods in gathering needed data in accordance to achieve the objectives of the study such as
Participant 1, Rey
Rey is a 49-year-old Grade 7 Social Studies teacher at Judge Juan Luna High School, is a Master Teacher II with 17 years of experience
in Araling Panlipunan. He earned a Bachelor of Secondary Education with a specialization in Social Studies from City College of
Manila and a Master of Arts in Education from Eulogio Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology. Rey completed his doctorate
in educational management at the University of Caloocan City. His experience has strengthened his career, allowing him to identify
solutions for students facing various obstacles.
Participant 2, Sonia
Sonia is a 28-year-old serves as a Grade 7 & 9 Araling Panlipunan teacher at Judge Juan Luna High School. She is Teacher II with 6
years of teaching experience.She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education, Majoring in History, from the Philippine
Normal University. Currently, she is pursuing her Master of Arts in Education, specializing in Philosophy of Education, at the
University of the Philippines Diliman. Dedicated to advocating for teachers' rights and education-related causes, Sonia holds the
position of Union Council District Representative for Junior High School at the Quezon City Public School Teachers Association. She
is also an active member of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers.
Participant 3, Caryll
Caryll is a 32-year-old Grade 10 Social Science teacher at Judge Juan Luna High School. She is Teacher III with nine years and two
months of teaching experience. She handled Araling Panlipunan 7-10 during her seven years of teaching in the public school. She
obtained her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education, Majoring in History, from well-known university in Metro Manila . She also
have a unit in Master of Arts in Education Major in Social Sciences.
Participant 4, Maryvhic
Maryvhic is a 33-year-old Grade 8 and Grade 10 Social Science teacher at Judge Juan Luna High School. She is Teacher III with 11
years of teaching experience. She taught Araling Panlipunan 7-10 during her 10 years of teaching in public school. She received her
bachelor's degree in secondary education, majoring in social science, from the Philippine Normal University .She completed her
academic requirement in her master’s degree in social science at Polytechnic University of the Philippines.
Participant 5, Bernie
Bernie is a 60-year-old Grade 9 Social Science teacher at Judge Juan Luna High School. He is a Teacher II with 10 years of teaching
experience. He handled Araling
Panlipunan 7-10 during his ten years of teaching in the public school. He graduated from a reputable Metro Manila institution with a
Bachelor of Arts degree major in Political Science. He completed his academic requirement in master’s degree in special education at
University of Santo Tomas.
Theme 1: Understanding and Integration of GCE into the teaching and learning process
Global Citizenship Education (GCE) is viewed by social studies teachers as promoting global interconnectedness, with decisions
affecting communities throughout the world. Teaching global citizenship enables students to build responsibilities and competencies
for an interconnected world. While some consciously integrated GCE, others adhered to the curriculum.
Three categories arise from this theme, including one global community, integration into curriculum, and moral obligations. In
Category 1: One Global
Community, the understanding of GCE among educators is rooted in the idea that people are all interconnected in a global community.
The rapid advancements in technology have revitalized the concept of GCE, emphasizing the impact of our decisions on a local,
national, and international scale. Participants view teaching global citizenship as an essential aspect of education in a globally
interconnected world. The participants emphasized that GCE helps students develop a sense of responsibility towards the global
community and equips them with the knowledge and competencies needed to navigate an interconnected world.
For instance, Participant 1 Rey, “These rapid developments have given new life to Global Citizenship, which holds that we are all part
of one global community and that our decisions and actions may affect people and communities locally, nationally, and internationally.
“L7-L9, Participant 3 Caryll, Global Citizenship Education, is an educational process that helps an individual to understand, to
participate and to be a responsible citizen of the civil society” L5-L6
Moreover, the participants emphasized that GCE helps students develop a sense of responsibility towards the global community and
equips them with the knowledge and competencies needed to navigate an interconnected world.
As Participant 2 Sonia mentioned, “GCE helps young people gain the skills to engage with the world critically and thoughtfully.”L6-
L7.
According to (Rapoport, A. 2020) Global Citizenship Education concludes to enable citizens to change their way of life and adopt
modern education for their benefit. It also fosters a shift in thinking toward diverse cultures, supporting global peace andmharmony.
This lead to connect to the large context. Aside from understanding what GCE is, participants also integrate it to the curriculum. In
Category 2: Integration into Curriculum participants mentioned that GCE is part of the broader curriculum but they connect it to their
lessons
As mentioned by Participant 1 Rey, “It is always found in the lesson's application part.” L14-L15 also Participant 2 Sonia emphasized
that, “Although GCE is part of the broader curriculum framework, primarily addressed in Grades 4 and 10” I integrate it into my
Grade 9 lessons intentionally. By incorporating GCE into the lessons, especially during the valuing component, I can help students
develop a more comprehensive understanding of global issues and their role in the world. This approach allows me to guide students
in critical thinking and active engagement with real-world challenges, even outside the designated grade levels.” L15- L21
Additionally, teaching GCE is like teaching Social Studies subjects and it is best taught through integration or in interdisciplinary
approach to enhance the teaching and learning process.
Participant 1 Rey stated, “Teaching global citizenship is like teaching social studies subjects in all of its sub-disciplines: Asian and
World History, Economics, and Current Issues in secondary schools. Because it is part of social studies instruction, how students
internalize their reasons through reflection.” L12- L14 also Participant 4 Maryvhic, “Araling Panlipunan is best taught through an
interdisciplinary approach, integrating concepts from various disciplines such as social studies, geography, history, and
economics.This approach helps my students understand global issues from multiple perspectives” L12-L15.
According to one study, policymakers must highlight the significance of GCE by providing policy guidelines that promote its inclusion,
in the curriculum. In order to promote a global perspective in all fields of study, it is crucial to implement courses and integrate global
citizenship education (GCE) principles throughout the curriculum, pedagogy, and field placements, as well as prioritize professional
development for teacher educators (Lourenço et al., 2022; Witt, 2022). Moreover, (Andrews & Aydin, 2020), including global
citizenship education in the social studies curriculum would give teachers a way to introduce students to diversity and different cultures.
Despite of integrating it to their lessons or subjects social studies teachers comply fully to their duty as educator. In Category 3: Moral
Obligation they perceive education as a means to promote human rights and peace, underscoring their commitment to providing quality
education that equips learners with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.
Participant 4 Maryvhic stated that, “Teachers in Public Schools adhere to the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCS)
designed by the Department of Education. MELCS refers to the knowledge, understanding, skills, and attitudes that our students need
to demonstrate in every lesson and/or learning activity in our subject area.” L17- L20 also Participant 3 Caryll, “It is also my duty as
an educator to provide my learners a quality education with knowledge, skills and attitudes that cultivate tolerance, respect, and a
shared sense of belonging to one global community” L14- L16.
As a result, this would enable students to gain an appreciation and understanding of cultures other than their own as well as the skills
necessary to ensure that their perspectives and actions support becoming global citizens, especially when combined with opportunities
for applied critical thinking that teachers provide. Furthermore, secondary teachers that include global connections into their curricula
recognize that they are global citizens and hope that their students will follow. (Wasilewski, S. M. 2019).
Theme 2 Student Transformation and Actions through GCE
Junior high school teachers witnessed significant changes in their students as a result of Global Citizenship Education (GCE), including
increased empathy, proactive community engagement, and advocacy for change. Examples include student-led community service
during the COVID-19 pandemic and environmental projects that promote sustainability. GCE promotes critical thinking and
involvement with global concerns, resulting students responsible citizens who understand their roles in a global society.
Two categories were arise from this theme, proactive members of the society and civic responsibility. In Category 1: Proactive members
of the society the majority of the junior high school teachers shared examples of significant transformations observed in students as a
result of engaging with GCE concepts. They noted instances where students became more caring, empathetic, and proactive in their
communities, taking action and advocating for change.
As stated by Participant 2 Sonia, “I would like to say that I observed my students becoming more caring and empathetic members of
their school, at the very least.“L30-L31 also Participant 3 Caryll, “My learners become actively participate in their community and
work with others to make the society more equal, fair and sustainable.” L19-L20 also Participant 4 Maryvhic,“Through a variety of
Victa et al. 777/785
Psych Educ, 2024, 22(7): 772-785, Document ID:2024PEMJ2098, doi:10.5281/zenodo.12867265, ISSN 2822-4353
Research Article
locally based community involvement activities. taking part in elections for the student government, organizing clean-up campaigns,
and joining clubs and other school groups.”L27-L29.
Moreover, participants highlighted also the different activities that their students involved with that incorporated with the GCE
concepts.
As emphasized by Participant 1 Rey,“During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the youth also took part in community service,
where the concerns are for public health and safety.” L32-L33 also Participant 2 Sonia“The "Kabataan Kontra Kalat" (3K) project,
led by my students, is a powerful example of the transformations I've seen from engaging with Global Citizenship Education (GCE)
concepts. The project aimed to reduce daily waste by monitoring trash and encouraging students to bring their own tumblers and food
containers.Through this initiative, students showed a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork, taking charge of environmental
stewardship at school. ” L34-L38.
There was a study that stated that GCE can change people's behaviors and encourage a more favorable attitude toward different cultures,
supporting global peace and harmony.(Amna Saleem et al., 2022). Students that actively participate in the community develop their
ability to engage with a variety of societal challenges.
In Category 2: Civic Responsibility They emphasized that perceiving youth as members of a global society and being aware of the
challenges and opportunities that come with it helps develop their roles and responsibilities as citizens. Moreover, GCE boosts
engagement with real-world problems by promoting active involvement in finding solutions, enabling students to gain practical
experience and understand their potential impact on communities and the world. The teachers highlighted the positive impact of Global
Citizenship Education (GCE) on their students' empathy, critical thinking, and engagement with global issues.
As mentioned by Participant 1 Rey, “Seeing youth as members of a global society, as well as being aware of and accepting
responsibility for the difficulties and possibilities that arise, helps them develop their roles and responsibilities as citizens.” L36-L38
moreover, Participant 2 Sonia stated that “Global Citizenship Education (GCE) enhanced my students' empathy by exposing them to
diverse perspectives, sharpens critical thinking through analyzing complex issues, and boosts engagement with real-world problems
by encouraging active involvement in solutions.” L44- L46, and lastly Participant 3 Caryll, “It will help my learners to become
responsible citizen, good decision makers and problem solvers for a better and transformative world.” L27-L28.
It emphasizes the importance of educators incorporating global connections and viewpoints into their classrooms to enhance students'
21st-century skills and make them change agents (Wasilewski, S. M. 2019). To make the world a better place, students must grasp their
duties as global citizens and recognize the need of international solidarity while fighting for a cause. Understanding global issues and
other cultures encourages students to advocate for social justice, equity, unity, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
(Andrews & Aydin, 2020).
As a result, the teachers consider GCE as a catalyst for developing responsible citizens who are empathetic, critical thinkers, and
actively engaged in resolving global challenges. They view GCE as a transformative educational approach that equips learners with
the necessary skills and mindset to become effective decision-makers and problem-solvers, contributing to a better world.
Theme 3: Emerging Problems in GCE
Global Citizenship Education (GCE) is not without its obstacles, as junior high school teachers interviewed about. Student interest and
engagement, a lack of resources, negotiating different points of view, and handling sensitive topics are typical problems. There were
worries that pandemic-related learning gaps may affect students' comprehension of difficult global issues. The delivery of lessons was
hampered by a lack of instructional resources.
Two categories arise from this theme, Educational Difficulties and a broad range of focus. In Category 1: Educational Difficulties
participants encountered different challenges when it comes to delivering the lessons one factor was the learning materials available in
the school.
Participant 3 Caryll mentioned that, “We don’t have textbooks in AP10 , Sensitive topic, Cultural Diversity/Cultural Gaps” L32 also
Participant 2 Sonia, “Limited resources, such as shortages in teaching materials and visual aids make delivering engaging lessons
more difficult.” L51-L54.
Aside from this, participants also emphasized student engagement and external factors were also a challenge in teaching GCE.
Participant 4 Maryvhic pointed out, “Most learners in the public school have short attention spans. Keeping them engaged and
interested in GCE can be a hurdle, as the concepts can be complex and abstract for some students.” L42-L44, also Participant 1
Rey“Given the many external factors influencing them, such as financial help, family background, and other relevant concerns.” L43-
L44 and Participant 2 Sonia stated that, learning gap from the pandemic, which affects students' ability to grasp complex global issues”
L50- L51.
In classrooms, there is often a problem with student engagement. This problem is mostly caused by the fundamental problem of
students' lack of interest (Scholarworks@gvsu & Urias, 2022). The study found that while the majority of teachers believed it was their
duty to motivate and engage their learners, fewer of them thought that their students were inspired and engaged (Dissertations &
Projects, 2019). These are some of the problems that need to be addressed in order to effectively teach to the students.
Moreover, in Category 2: Broad range of focus is another challenge that the participants faced was a wide range of topics needed to
teach or cover to the students. The focus of GCE encompassed different areas such as political, economic, and cultural framework
issues. As a result, teachers need to have differing viewpoints to effectively teach the lessons to their students to avoid
misunderstandings when teaching the lesson to foster different skills such as empathy and critical thinking to their students.
Participant 1 Rey mentioned, “It is focusing more on the political, economic, and cultural framework issues.” L46, also Participant 4
Maryvhic mentioned, “Teaching Global Citizenship Education (GCE) presents unique challenges due to its focus on global issues and
sensitive topics requiring diverse teaching materials and navigating differing viewpoints, yet fostering essential skills like empathy and
critical thinking.” L49-L51.
As a result, teachers need to have differing viewpoints to effectively teach the lessons to their students to avoid misunderstandings
when teaching the lesson to foster different skills such as empathy and critical thinking to their students.
Theme 4: Strategies to Address GCE Challenges
Participants highlighted cross-curricular integration of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) for junior high schools, creative teaching
strategies, and parental involvement. It was emphasized to be culturally sensitive, to accommodate diversity, and to provide richer
learning opportunities. To overcome obstacles, educators used a variety of pedagogical strategies, created inclusive learning
environments, and increased student involvement using techniques like group projects and multimedia materials.
Two categories arise from this theme, Involve stakeholders and utilize various strategies. In Category 1: Involve stakeholders, this has
proven as an essential strategy to combat the challenges that they are facing in teaching GCE in junior high school classes.
Participant 4 Maryvhic pointed out that “teachers should involve the local community in GCE initiatives, such as inviting guest
speakers, organizing community service projects, or participating in global awareness events. Involving the local community in
meaningful ways will help our students in understanding the connections between local and global issues and the importance of taking
action at both levels.”L71-L75, Participant 1 Rey also added “Not only continuous discovery and development of innovative teaching
but also to intensify the participation of parents in this endeavor. “L56-L57.
Collaboration among players, especially non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations, is regarded as necessary for
effective global citizenship education teacher education (Tarozzi, M. 2020). Aside from this, participants used different strategy to
fully resolve the challenges In Category 2: Utilize various teaching strategies junior high school teachers exhibited various teaching
strategies to engage students in teaching GCE inside the classroom.
Participant 1 Rey mentioned “Teaching GCE among learners can be handled in a pedagogical and inventive way. Lecture-discussion,
performance task, and homework-based, besides the use of social networking applications and other forms of technology” L48-L50.
also Participant 4 Maryvhic, “we need to use a variety of teaching methods, such as group work, case studies, simulations, and
multimedia resources, to make GCE more interactive and engaging for our students.” L65-L67 moreover, Participant 4 Maryvhic
added that “I should focus on student-centered learning approaches, encouraging my students to take ownership of their learning and
explore global issues that are meaningful to them” L69-L7.
Similarly, according to (Chandresh Kumar Chhatlani, 2023), Holistic learning approaches, such as project-based and experiential
learning, play an important role in developing global citizenship abilities. These initiatives foster multicultural understanding, empathy,
effective communication, social justice awareness, environmental stewardship, and a feeling of civic responsibility among students.
Holistic learning involves students in active learning, critical thinking, and reflection by combining real-world experiences with
multidisciplinary views, training them to be responsible global citizens.
In order to develop responsible global citizens, social studies teachers placed a high priority on educational approaches that promote
meaningful involvement, active learning, and cultural sensitivity.
Theme 5: Pointers for Development
Participants highlighted innovative teaching approaches, parental involvement, and cross-curricular integration of Global Citizenship
Education (GCE) through a well-defined action plan for junior high schools. Providing culturally sensitive learning opportunities and
acknowledging diversity were deemed critical. Participants also emphasized the need of integrating global concepts with local history
and culture while contextualizing GCE for students. Seminars to revitalize instructional approaches were suggested, as well as annual
workshops and regular updates on world events important to GCE. Educators' aspirations for GCE included developing future leaders,
instilling agency, and responsibility, and creating a more interconnected global community.
In Category 1: Teaching is continuous learning, to improve teacher training and development in Global Citizenship Education (GCE),
junior high school teachers proposed holding seminars and workshops that centered on revitalizing pedagogical competencies to
successfully handle challenges in education. Most participants suggested offering continuing education programs that are especially
Casuality
It is the description of how certain factors have influenced a person’s live experiences on the phenomenon. (Moustakas, 1994). In terms
of casuality, participants faced different challenges in educational practices which influenced the participants' lived experiences of
teaching Global Citizenship Education. participant stated that “Evaluating my students' understanding and progress in GCE is also
challenging, as traditional assessment methods may not always capture the full range of skills and competencies GCE aims to develop."
L34-L35. This line highlights the causal relationship between assessment strategies and the development of global citizenship
competencies, underscoring the need for innovative assessment approaches. As a result, participant used different method in assessment
“Developing creative assessment strategies to evaluate my students' understanding of GCE, such as project-based assessments,
portfolios, and reflective journals” L36-L37.
Materiality
When it comes to materiality, it is the descriptions oh how the lived experiences of a person are affected by materiality or th reality of
the world (Moustakas, 1994). In the study, teachers participants school conditions greatly affect their lives, as they struggle the
availability or lack of material resources, such as textbooks and teaching materials, which can either facilitate or hinder their efforts.
Participants are experiencing educational difficulties as stated during the interview, “We don’t have textbooks in AP10” L32,“Limited
resources, such as shortages in teaching materials and visual aids,”and with a lot of material thing that they lacked, they still managed
to be resourceful and utilized only the available materials that they have“ L51-L53.Despite these challenges, the teachers emphasized
the importance of finding creative solutions and adapting teaching approaches to effectively address the specific challenges of teaching
GCE. “Teaching GCE among learners can be handled in a pedagogical and inventive way. Lecture-discussion, performance task, and
homework-based, besides the use of social networking applications and other forms of technology” L48-L50, “we need to use a variety
of teaching methods, such as group work, case studies, simulations, and multimedia resources, to make GCE more interactive and
engaging for our students.” L65-L67. These shows that the material concerns and the need for adequate educational resources are
essential to effective teaching of GCE.
Bodily Concerns
It is the descriptions of a person’s lived experiences which involves his/her body reactions such as emotions, etc. on the phenomenon.
(Moustakas, 1994). Junior high school teachers face challenges in teaching in GCE like "One challenge is teaching GCE, is how to
inspire and motivate learners' interest in participating in at least a local community issue, given the many external factors influencing
them, such as financial help, family background, and other relevant concerns."L42-L44,"most learners in the public school have short
attention spans. Keeping them engaged and interested in GCE can be a hurdle, as the concepts can be complex and abstract for some
students." L42-L44. Here, the participants describes the bodily concern of motivating and inspiring students’ interest in GCE, but also
acknowledging external causes and concerns that may impact their level of engagement. Despite these challenges, teachers still have a
positive outlook for their students and the future as mentioned by the participants "I always assure and support my learners to gain an
understanding of how the world works and try to stay well-informed" L25-L26, "we are one in dreaming for the best of our learners
because they are our future generations. To achieve this endeavor, an educator should not lose hope, although the teaching profession
is difficult to perform besides the personal problems that an educator also experiences." L63-L65.
Relationship to Self and Others
Lastly, it is the descriptions of a person’s live experiences involving their personal reactions, introspections and interactions with others
as well. (Moustakas, 1994).When it comes to the participants' relationship to others and self, it was obvious that participants
demonstrated a positive connection with themselves and others. For instance, participant mentioned that "It is not far away from
teaching social studies, values, and beliefs that molded my character as an educator." L19-L22. ”even I am a Araling Panlipunan
Teacher for years, I still need to learn and upgrade my skills and competencies.” L61-L62. The participants acknowledged that their
expertise and competencies are constantly evolving, even after years of experience, and that teaching GCE aligns with their deeply
held principles and fundamental aspects of their character as a teacher. Moreover,the participant values the ability to help students
apply their learning to real-world situations, which is a core aspect of GCE.“Global Citizenship Education (GCE) aligns with my values
as an Araling Panlipunan educator by helping students apply what they learn to real-world situations” L23-L24.
Essence
From the structural and textural descriptions, the researcher then writes a composite description that presents the “essence” of the
phenomenon, called the essential, invariant structure (or essence). Primarily this passage focuses on the common experiences of the
participants. (Moustakas, 1994). "To make it more meaningful, learners should be asked to take part in such multitasking performances
while the teacher encourages them to ask higher-order thinking questions for clarity and practical application." L15-L17. This line
captures the essence of GCE, emphasizing the development of higher-order thinking skills, practical application, and meaningful
engagement with global citizenship concepts. At its core, the essence of GCE lies in nurturing responsible, ethical, and engaged global
citizens who possess the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world. The
essence of GCE is rooted in a commitment to social justice, sustainable development, and the promotion of human rights. By embodying
these principles, students can become agents of positive change, actively participating in addressing global challenges and creating a
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