Palestinian Arab Teachers’ Quality of Work Life in a Divided Educational System in Israel

Abstract

This study investigates the quality of work life (QWL) among Palestinian Arab high school teachers in Israel. QWL significantly influences individual well-being, health, social values, effectiveness, productivity, and overall organizational outcomes. A total of 1,245 Palestinian Arab high school teachers participated in a QWL survey. The confirmatory factor analysis identified six key dimensions of QWL: (1) autonomy and positive working relationships; (2) fringe benefits; (3) job security and skills utilization; (4) open communication and resource balance; (5) equitable compensation; and (6) training and professional development. The findings indicate that Palestinian Arab high school teachers experience a moderate level of QWL, with autonomy and positive working relationships being the most highly valued factors, while fringe benefits and fair wages ranked the lowest. Additionally, variations in the perception of specific QWL dimensions were noted based on gender, age, and teaching experience.