Enhancing Teacher Professionalism Through Character Education: A Psychoeducational Approach for Educators at Lukmanulhakeem School, Yala, Thailand

Abstract

Character development is a fundamental aspect of teacher professionalism, influencing their interactions with students, colleagues, and the broader educational community. This psychoeducational program aimed to enhance teachers' awareness of the importance of strong moral character and provide practical strategies for fostering ethical behavior in their professional roles. Conducted at Lukmanulhakeem School, Yala, Thailand, on November 3, 2024, the program involved 30 teachers in a series of interactive workshops, discussions, and role-playing exercises. Findings indicated a significant improvement in teachers' ability to manage emotions when dealing with students, strengthen professional ethics in decision-making, and build positive relationships within the school environment. Post-test results demonstrated a 40% increase in participants' understanding of character-based teaching practices. Teachers reported greater confidence in handling classroom challenges, applying ethical considerations in disciplinary actions, and fostering an inclusive learning atmosphere. The results align with previous research emphasizing the critical role of character education in enhancing teaching quality and student outcomes. Future programs should focus on long-term implementation and institutional support to reinforce ethical teaching practices. This study underscores the necessity of integrating character development into teacher training programs to foster a more ethical and effective education system.