Abstract
The study was conducted to find out the levels of conflict resolution, levels of emotional intelligence and levels of staff cohesion among teachers as well as if conflict resolution and emotional intelligence significantly predict staff cohesion, and also if conflict resolution really mediates the relationship between conflict resolution and staff cohesion. This study used a convergent mixed method design with a total of 17 participants for qualitative data, specifically 10 participants for the individual interview and 7 for focus group discussion. Meanwhile, a total of 200 teachers were asked to answer the survey questionnaire for the quantitative data. A survey questionnaire was used to gather data on conflict resolution, emotional intelligence and staff cohesion. The result revealed that there is a high level of conflict resolution, moderate level of emotional intelligence and high staff cohesion level. Moreover, all the variables conflict resolution and emotional intelligence significantly predicts staff cohesion. On the other hand, conflict resolution and emotional intelligence has a significant indirect effect on quality of staff cohesion. This implies that emotional intelligence really mediates the relationship between conflict resolution and staff cohesion. Meanwhile, two themes emerge from the interview which put emphasis on open communication, and supportive leadership. Furthermore, data revealed a strong confirmation on the corroboration between the quantitative data and the qualitative data. This study recommended that educational institutions prioritize the development of conflict resolution skills among teachers as a means to enhance staff cohesion. By recognizing the mediating effect of conflict resolution on the relationship between emotional intelligence and staff cohesion, schools can implement targeted training programs and workshops aimed at improving conflict management strategies.
Keywords: Conflict Resolution, Emotional Intelligence, Staff Cohesion, Convergent Design, Municipality of M’lang, Philippines