Journal of Higher Education Research Disciplines

Navigating New Frontiers: A Case Study on Teachers’ Assessment Practices during a Pandemic Disruption

Neilbrien Pamo — 2025-06-16

Assessment plays a vital role in the teaching and learning process. Understanding the lived experiences of teachers in relation to their assessment practices during unprecedented times offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers. Examining how teachers perceived and implemented assessments in remote distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic provides a benchmark for improving educational responsiveness in rapidly changing contexts. This study employed a qualitative research design, specifically a case analysis approach, to explore the assessment practices of teachers at San Vicente Elementary School in Bani, Pangasinan, during the pandemic. All teaching personnel were considered informants. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, guided by the Community of Inquiry framework.
Eight (8) themes emerged from the analysis and were categorized under the Community of Inquiry framework: three (3) themes related to social presence, three (3) to cognitive presence, and two (2) to teaching presence. The findings reveal that teachers navigated evolving assessment practices by adapting strategies to accommodate the diverse needs of learners in a remote learning environment.
The study concludes that assessment practices during the pandemic remain in a developmental stage, requiring ongoing refinement to align with learners’ diverse contexts. Notably, cognitive presence in assessment must be strengthened to promote reflective and constructive learning experiences. These findings underscore the importance of responsive and adaptable assessment systems in supporting learners and educators during times of crisis and beyond.

Cracking the Eggshell Problem: Exploring Disposal Practices, Awareness, and Sustainable Waste Solutions

Carlyn Faith Catane — 2025-06-16

This study examines the eggshell disposal practices of individuals in the food industry and households, addressing the central question: How do individuals typically dispose of eggshells? Using a qualitative research design, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with six purposively selected participants to gather rich, contextual narratives about their disposal behaviors. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: (1) Accustomed Disposal Practices, where convenience and time pressures drive routine disposal into garbage bins; (2) Knowledge and Awareness Gaps, where participants lack understanding of eggshell recycling or reuse options and have limited perception of environmental impacts; and (3) Openness to Innovation and Change, where some individuals express tentative willingness to explore alternative uses, often rooted in family traditions or emerging environmental consciousness. These findings underscore the importance of targeted educational programs, local recycling initiatives, and community-based interventions in promoting sustainable organic waste management. The study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13 (Climate Action), emphasizing the importance of integrating knowledge, behavioral support, and institutional backing to reduce waste and foster environmental stewardship. Recommendations include actionable recycling practices, educational initiatives, and future research expanding the generalizability of qualitative insights.

Cultivating Balance by Exploring Pinoy Garden Enthusiasts’ Experiences

John Derek Antillon — 2025-06-16

This study addresses the research gap concerning the experiences of Filipino garden enthusiasts navigating gardening responsibilities alongside post-pandemic work and family demands. While global literature highlights the therapeutic and psychological benefits of gardening, little is known about how Filipino garden enthusiasts manage their hobby amid the pressures of the new normal. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with eight purposively selected participants (four students and four professionals) to explore their lived experiences, challenges, and coping strategies. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: (1) balancing work and gardening commitments, (2) gardening as a path to stress relief, and (3) cultivating responsibility and personal growth through plant care. Participants reported time constraints, financial barriers, and limited gardening knowledge as primary challenges but also emphasized the emotional satisfaction and stress relief they gained from nurturing plants. The study recommends the development of accessible gardening tools, educational resources, and time-saving innovations tailored to the needs of busy gardeners. Additionally, community-based support systems and online platforms could be leveraged to sustain gardening engagement and ensure the well-being benefits of this hobby are preserved even under modern pressures.

Assessing The Impact Of Gardening Wellness And Responsibility On The Work-Life Balance Of Busy Gardener

Kein Euhann Cruz — 2025-06-16

This study explored the relationship between gardening practices and work-life balance among busy gardeners in the post-pandemic period, focusing on two key variables: Gardening for Wellness and Cultivating Responsibility. Using a quantitative descriptive-predictive design, data were collected from 137 purposively selected respondents through validated questionnaires. Descriptive statistics revealed that participants generally perceive gardening as beneficial for well-being (M = 3.90) and acknowledge a strong sense of responsibility toward plant care (M = 3.45). However, their implementation of work-life balance strategies yielded a neutral response (M = 3.32), indicating challenges in maintaining consistency. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that both well-being (β = 0.139, p < .001) and sense of responsibility (β = 0.206, p < .001) significantly influenced work-life balance, with responsibility exhibiting a more pronounced effect. These findings suggest that while gardening promotes psychological well-being and responsibility, practical barriers, such as time constraints, limit the achievement of a consistent work-life balance. The study recommends STEM-based innovations to facilitate gardening tasks and educational programs to enhance time management and promote sustainable gardening practices. Future research should broaden the sample and investigate additional influencing factors to deepen understanding. Overall, the study confirms that gardening remains a meaningful activity that contributes positively to personal well-being and work-life integration.

Unlocking Academic Success: The Impact of Financial Support, Parental Guidance, and Aspirations Among SHS STEM Students

Lester Jhon Castil — 2025-06-16

Multiple factors beyond classroom learning influence academic excellence. This study examines the combined effects of financial support, parental guidance, and personal aspirations on the academic performance of Senior High School (SHS) STEM students at the Science and Technology University in Northern Mindanao. A descriptive-predictive survey design was employed, involving 60 Grade 11 and Grade 12 STEM students. Data were collected using a validated, researcher-developed questionnaire that measured financial support, parental guidance (moral, emotional, and spiritual), personal aspirations, and academic excellence. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used for data analysis. Findings showed that students had neutral perceptions of their financial support, strong agreement regarding parental guidance and personal aspirations, and a positive view of their academic excellence. Regression analysis revealed that personal aspiration was the strongest predictor of academic performance (β = 0.748, p < .001), while financial support and parental guidance did not show significant direct influence. The study highlights the importance of cultivating personal aspirations to promote academic excellence. While parental and financial support remains essential, their primary influence may be indirect, reinforcing students’ motivation and goal-setting behaviors.

Life Under the Buzz: Uncovering the Lived Experiences of Residents in Mosquito-Prone Communities

Rain Godwin Rañada — 2025-06-25

Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue continue to pose major health risks in tropical communities where residents live in constant exposure to mosquitoes. This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of individuals living in this mosquito-prone area and identify the preventive measures and solutions they use to cope with health risks and daily discomfort. Using a phenomenological research design, seven purposively selected participants were interviewed through semi-structured, one-on-one interviews guided by a validated protocol. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s (2008) approach. Findings revealed five major themes: (1) Living with Constant Vigilance, (2) Bearing Emotional and Physical Weight, (3) Hoping for Better, Together, (4) everyday Protective Actions, and (5) Community and Environment Efforts. The study concludes that addressing mosquito-borne health risks requires both empowering individual protective strategies and supporting broader community and policy-level interventions. It recommends future multi-site or longitudinal studies and stronger collaboration between barangay leaders and academic institutions to co-develop sustainable, low-cost solutions tailored to community realities.

Preliminary Checklist of Ensifera (Orthoptera) Species from Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park, Mindanao, Philippines

Rodrin Revelleza Rivera — 2025-07-11

Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park (MMRNP) is a key biodiversity area that serves as a crucial habitat for Ensifera species. This study provides the first preliminary checklist of Ensifera species in Mt. Malindang. The study was conducted through a purposive sampling via hand catching across 14 selected sites in MMRNP from January to November 2024 and from March to April 2025 respectively. Results showed a total of 36 species from six families, 11 subfamilies, and 28 genera of Ensifera were recorded with 25% endemic to Mindanao Island. Paranisitra flavofacia Baroga-Barbecho, Yap, Tan & Robillard, 2019 was the most dominant species recorded in the area. Interestingly, Anthracites zebra Hebard, 1922, was noted to have color variations, from which each species was collected at different sites. Additionally, two new species were identified in this study such Anthracites seneaureus sp. nov. Tan, Rivera & Daguplo, 2025 and Scytocera musa sp. nov. Tan & Rivera, 2025. The study highlights the underappreciated status of Ensiferans in Mt. Malindang, evidenced by the numerous new locality records and the identification of two previously unknown species. These results underscore the importance of ongoing and thorough exploration of Ensifera species in the area, building on sampling efforts that have been ongoing since 1959. Nonetheless, the lack of molecular data limits a complete understanding of their genetic composition and evolutionary connections, hindering efforts to accurately resolve phylogenetic relationships, assess cryptic diversity, and implement informed conservation strategies.

Challenges Encountered By Hospitality Management Students During Internship

Genalyn Paden — 2025-06-05

An internship played a crucial role in developing students' hard skills and competencies by bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and practical experience. However, some research indicated that achieving an effective internship experience requires an understanding of its challenges. The study identified the challenges faced by students in Hospitality Management during their internships, examined their responses to these challenges, and assessed the roles of academic institutions and Host Training Establishments in contributing to the success of the internship program. The research utilized Yin's six-step data analysis method: planning, designing, preparing, gathering, observing, and sharing. The investigation was carried out at Northwestern Mindanao State College, which is a publicly funded tertiary educational institution situated in Tangub City, throughout the second semester of the 2022-2023 academic year. A total of 12 participants were chosen for the study using purposive sampling. The results revealed the five themes of the challenges encountered: (1) Experiencing Financial Struggles, (2) Time Management Dilemma, (3) Communication Barrier, (4) Deployment Declination, and (5) Emotional Troubles. Four themes were produced on managing the challenges during the internship: (1) Looking for Financial Assistance, (2) Having Interpersonal Communication, (3) Being Receptive to Circumstances, (4) Mental Strengthening and Fostering Self Control. While there are eight themes developed for the roles of the academic institution and the host training establishment in achieving a high standard of internship: (1) Participate in Continuous Evaluation and Feedback Procedures (2) Enabling Job Role Transition (3) Facility Construction (4) Pursuing Fair Management and Building of Explicit Decisions (5) Engaging of Constant Monitoring (6) Economic Assistance Program(7) Involvement in Academic Endeavor (8) Establishing Support Mechanisms and Consultation. Internship training frequently involves personal and interpersonal problems. Academic institutions and host training facilities are responsible for providing students with constant support throughout their internship.

Alignment of Academic Performance and Industry Competency: A Comparative Study of Institutional and Internship Performance Evaluation

Jennilyn Pedrita Abdulsamad — 2025-06-05

The growing hospitality industry’s demand for skilled professionals has driven the rapid expansion of hospitality education worldwide. Although internships are recognized as an essential link between classroom learning and practical experience, there is still limited evidence on whether academic training adequately equips students with the specific professional competencies required by the industry. This study aims to examine the alignment of BS Hospitality Management students’ academic performance to industry competency using descriptive comparative research design. The study was conducted using secondary data, including students’ grades and industry student evaluation rating. Results indicate that students perform similarly in Food and Beverage, Front Office, and Kitchen competencies but show a notable gap in Housekeeping. The program effectively prepared students for most competencies, though Housekeeping assessments may not fully reflect their practical skills. The institution may further enhance the curriculum by involving industry professionals in curriculum reviews.