Understanding Employer Perspectives on the Competencies and Performance of Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Graduates

Abstract

This qualitative study focuses on how employers evaluate the skills and professional performance of graduates from a public university's early childhood education program. The research used a researcher-developed written interview guide, and the participants were nineteen school administrators from public and private kindergarten and elementary schools in Cagayan Province, Philippines. The findings show that the graduates demonstrate strengths in instructional competence, classroom management, assessment practices, professionalism, collaboration, and adaptability. These allows them to contribute positively to both learner outcomes and school operations. .However, the employers also pointed out some areas where graduates need to be better, such as inclusive education, action research, and the use of technology for teaching. The paper stresses the crucial role of employer feedback in curriculum review in order to meet professional standards, workplace demands, and societal expectations.