Commuting distance and job satisfaction among teachers in Tanzania

Abstract

This study sought to examine the effects of commuted distance on teachers’ job satisfaction in Tanzania. The study was carried out in Songwe Region using a cross-sectional survey design. A sample size of 68 respondents was determined using a Cochran formula from a population of 84 teachers, and were drawn using simple random sampling. The data were collected using closed-ended questionnaires. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed to analyse the demographic data, and respondents’ attitudes on commuted distances. Binary logistic regression was used to measure the effects of commuting distance on teachers’ job satisfaction. The findings reveal that, teachers who commute to a distance of 1to 3km from home to workplace have the highest mean satisfaction score of 3.87, and the Standard Deviation of 1.183. Again, teachers who commute to a distance of 100-399km from workplace to their domiciles have the highest mean satisfaction score of 3.60, and the Standard Deviation of 1.271. The findings also reveal a substantial relationship between commuting distance and teachers' job satisfaction as shown by odds ratio (Pseudo-R2 = 0.367). The study establishes that teachers who commute short distance from home to workplaces are more satisfied with their jobs than those who commute long distance from home to workplaces. Not only that but also, teachers who commute short distance from workplace to place of domicile are more satisfied with their job than those who commute long distance from workplace to place of domicile. Thus, based on the findings, a plausible conclusion can be drawn that commuting distance has effect towards teacher’s job satisfaction in Songwe Region. The study recommends that; employers should take into account commute distances while employing teachers in a nationwide arrangement. Finally, studies on approaches to lessen teachers' commuting distance challenges are suggested to increase employers’ awareness and teachers' job satisfaction.