Ancient vocation, new reality: experiences of teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objective The COVID-19 pandemic led to social isolation and school closures as measures to contain its spread. Based on phenomenology, the present study aimed to know and understand the senses and meanings that 10 Elementary School teachers attributed to their work in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Dialogical meetings were held with each participant generating Comprehensive Narratives. Results The results were organized into five significant elements: (a) fulfillment of a childhood dream arising from the influence of significant people; (b) teaching as an act of love and social transformation; (c) continuous search for space and social recognition, (d) pandemic as an imbalance of life and profession and (e) digital teachers as a new reality. Conclusion The reiteration of the teachers’ commitment and motivation in the face of the imposed challenges, the need for adaptation and resilience and a change in perspective in the self-image and perception of social appreciation in relation to teaching work stand out.