This study investigated the migration intentions of mathematics educators in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Batangas Province, Philippines, examining how institutional factors, individual characteristics, external influences, and job satisfaction shape these intentions. Anchored in established migration and behavioral theories, the study employed a descriptive-correlational, quantitative design using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). A total of 150 mathematics educators from 63 HEIs across Batangas Province participated through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a 48-item researcher-developed questionnaire with strong validity (S-CVI/Ave = 1.00) and reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.861–0.896), administered via online survey supplemented by on-site visits. Findings revealed that migration intention was high in cognitive readiness but moderate in behavioral preparation, indicating a pre-migration state among the respondents. Demographic variables showed no significant direct relationship with migration intention. The PLS-SEM structural model (R² = 0.293) demonstrated that external factors (β = 0.346) and individual factors (β = 0.240) were significant positive predictors of migration intention, while institutional factors and job satisfaction did not reach significance as direct paths. These results suggest that global opportunity structures and personal aspirations — rather than local institutional conditions — primarily drive migration contemplation among mathematics educators in Philippine HEIs. The study contributes empirical evidence for policy interventions targeting faculty retention, emphasizing competitive compensation, career advancement opportunities, and workload management as strategic priorities for sustaining quality mathematics education in the region.

Authors:
Lea Catapang, Bahrain Polytechnic, Bahrain

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Lea A. Catapang is a Lecturer at Bahrain Polytechnic. Her interests include mathematics education, applied and pure mathematics, and data analytics. She recently completed a study on migration intentions among mathematics educators.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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