Ho Chi Minh City Open University Journal of Science - Social Sciences
Tạp chí của Trường Đại học Mở Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Ho Chi Minh City Open University Journal of Science
Locating the status of indigenous knowledge in the contemporary world
This paper offers a reflection on the epistemological perspectives concerning Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and issues that coincide with indigenous cultural preservation in the age of globalization. The arguments were derived from several academic articles and contending paradigmatic analyses from various intellectuals. I analyzed three issues concerning the clash between IK and globalization. First, the globalization of knowledge caused a dichotomy between IK and Western Knowledge (WK) because WK is often viewed as a source of “legitimate” knowledge, and Western scientists viewed IK as “unscientific.” Second is the rise and fall of IK. 20th-century scholars were dismissive of IK, but recent literature countered the dominant development discourse, and the emerging research on IK “gives voices” to the marginalized. However, the influence of globalization resulted in the slow deterioration of IK and posed a threat to indigenous peoples’ culture. Third is the developmental research and preservation of IK brought by modernity. In recent literature, IK is viewed as a vital component in the development process. But with the capitalist and neo-liberalist characteristics of the contemporary world, where commodification and bastardization of culture are rampant, IK is vulnerable to exploitation. This poses concerns about the “openness” of scientific research and preservation of IK studied by outside researchers (etic perspective).
Custodial duties are more rewarding: A comparative analysis of quality of work life among personnel in uniformed tri-bureaus of the Philippines
The study is descriptive-comparative research that aims to determine whether a significant difference exists in the quality of work life among tri-bureau uniformed personnel in selected municipalities of Cotabato Province, analyzed according to their organizational membership. The study involved 120 uniformed personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Kabacan and Kidapawan City. Respondents were selected using stratified proportional sampling. Data were collected through a survey approach and analyzed using mean calculations and the Kruskal-Wallis H Test. The study concluded that there is a significant difference in the quality of work life among the tri-bureau uniformed personnel based on their organizational membership, suggesting that jail officers experience a better quality of work life compared to policemen and firemen in the Philippines.
Reviewing employee experience: A systematic study
This paper systematically reviews the research literature on employee experience (EX) in relation to employee engagement and performance. Through an analysis of 94 peer-reviewed articles from 2011 - 2025, the study highlights the development of the EX field, its key themes, and research methods. The results show that EX is an emerging research area that has attracted attention from both academia and management. Key themes include the impact of EX on engagement and performance, the role of leadership and organizational culture, and the importance of measuring and managing EX. The study also highlights the diversity of EX research methods, ranging from quantitative to qualitative and mixed. The conclusion affirms that EX is a promising and potential field in human resources in general and Vietnamese scholars in particular. Investing in employee experience (EX) through improving the working environment, providing development opportunities, and building a positive organizational culture has a significant impact on employee engagement (EG). This engagement will then contribute to improving organizational performance. However, more research is needed to elucidate the mediating role of engagement in connecting different aspects of EX.
Voices of English major students in Literary Criticism course in the age of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed students’ approach to learning; however, most of the literature focuses on education, with less attention given to student perceptions of AI in the humanities, particularly in literary criticism. This study investigates the experiences of ten 4th-year BSEd English majors from the College of Teacher Education to understand how AI impacts their engagement in analyzing literary works. This phenomenological study uses semi-structured interviews to determine how AI shapes students’ learning experiences, with a focus on its impact on creativity and analytical thinking. Participants were purposively selected based on their enrollment in the Literary Criticism course and prior use of AI for writing-related tasks. Key findings indicate the positive and negative impacts of AI on students. Generally, students perceive AI positively as it aids in identifying analytical patterns and forming clear assumptions about the texts. Students also emphasize the importance of verifying AI-generated information to ensure accuracy in their interpretations. However, a concerning trend emerges, as some students tend to over-rely on AI. This reliance may impact their confidence in constructing independent analysis, suggesting a risk to their critical and interpretive thinking. Hence, there is a need for educational interventions to guide students in using AI responsibly. The study primarily addresses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) 4 on Quality Education by promoting responsible technology integration. The importance of developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and autonomy in learning-core components of quality education essential in the humanities and literature studies.
Healthcare access and expenditure patterns: A case study on financial burden and service utilization in Binodpur, Rajshahi City, Bangladesh
Access to healthcare and the financial burden of medical expenses remain critical challenges in Bangladesh, particularly among low- and middle-income households. This study investigates healthcare access patterns and expenditure burdens in Binodpur, a northeastern area of Rajshahi City. Based on primary data from 140 respondents collected through interviews and field observations, we examine the proportion of income allocated to healthcare, identify common financing sources for medical costs, and assess post-recovery productivity loss. The findings reveal that households spend an average of 6% of their total income on healthcare, with higher-income groups allocating up to 11% due to chronic illnesses. Moreover, 29% of respondents reported monthly income losses ranging from 2,600 to 3,000 BDT (approximately 21 - 25USD) due to illness-related work disruptions. Regression analysis shows a significant relationship between yearly income and healthcare expenditure (p < 0.001), highlighting income as a major determinant of healthcare access. These results emphasize the need for targeted health financing strategies and policy interventions to reduce the out-of-pocket burden and improve equitable healthcare access in Bangladesh.
Impact of demographics and communication skills on writing difficulties in university employees: A structural equation modeling approach
The study addresses the university correspondence paradox, a relatively unexplored topic in organizational communication research. It examines the relationships between the demographic profile, noncognitive constructs, communication skills, and the degree of difficulty in writing correspondence among university employees. Methodology: A correlational research design was employed, involving 300 participants from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Region IV-B, MIMAROPA, Philippines. Data collection focused on demographic factors, communication skills, and noncognitive constructs affecting correspondence writing. Results: Findings revealed that university employees often struggle to pursue postgraduate studies due to work overload. Additionally, a significant portion of employees hold job orders and contractual positions rather than regular employment. The study further established that communication skills and noncognitive constructs significantly predict the degree of difficulty in writing correspondence. Recommendations: To address these challenges, the researchers recommend the development of an employee development plan tailored for administrative aides under job order and contractual employment, enabling them to pursue postgraduate studies. Furthermore, standardized correspondence templates should be created and distributed to employees handling administrative tasks to enhance clarity, completeness, conciseness, courtesy, concreteness, consideration, and correctness in official communication.
A tracer study assessing pandemic pedagogy among social studies graduates in the Philippines
The Covid-19 pandemic drastically reshaped global education, forcing educators to quickly adopt remote, hybrid, and socially distanced learning methods. This study employs a tracer study to investigate the implications of pandemic pedagogy for educational resilience and workforce readiness. The research uses a mixed-methods approach with two groups of respondents, chosen purposively: faculty members (n = 16) and graduates (n = 114) of the Social Studies Program during the pandemic years (2020 - 2024). This is based on the Education Resilience Theory and Human Capital Theory. The results indicate that difficulties are common, and technological challenges are most significant for both populations (Faculty: 16, Students: 62, Total: 78), while assistance and work-life balance are least complicated for students (Faculty: 16, Students: 04, Total: 20). Thirteen teachers preferred flexibility, while interactive and participative teaching methods got three responses. In terms of skills shortages among graduates, technical proficiency was most frequently mentioned (30 responses), while emotional resilience was the least mentioned (14 responses). Furthermore, 72% of the graduates are employed, with the majority (42%) working in private institutions. Thus, there is a need for facilitative and adaptable learning environments that promote continuity in learning and assess employment outcomes in terms of differences in labor market integration and education as a key determinant of economic mobility. This research fills a gap in tracer studies by analyzing the effects of pandemic pedagogy on workforce preparedness, presenting evidence to inform professional development, policy, and inclusive instruction approaches that enhance support systems, interactive learning, and adaptive education, particularly in technology-constrained regions in the Philippines and the ASEAN region.
The impact of artificial intelligence on English language major education in selected Vietnamese higher education institutions
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a transformative role in English language teaching at higher education institutions in Vietnam. This study explores how AI tools influence teaching methods and student learning experiences. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected from 47 English major students via a 17-item questionnaire featuring both closed and open-ended questions. Quantitative findings show significant improvements in student engagement, vocabulary acquisition, and grammar proficiency. Qualitative responses reveal increased learning autonomy and flexibility, alongside concerns about reduced human interaction and technical challenges. The study highlights both the benefits and limitations of integrating AI into English language education and offers recommendations for more effective implementation.
The impact of ChatGPT on research and learning methods of university students in Ho Chi Minh City
This study examines the impact of ChatGPT on learning and research methods among university students in Ho Chi Minh City, employing a mixed-methods design. Data were collected from 577 participants, including students, lecturers, and educational administrators, via surveys and 28 in-depth interviews. Modern statistical techniques and content analysis ensured comprehensive and objective results. Over 70% of students found ChatGPT helpful for rapid information retrieval and enhancing learning efficiency, while around 65% indicated that it improved writing skills, particularly in grammar checking and idea organization. However, 60% expressed concerns that excessive reliance on ChatGPT might diminish critical thinking and creativity. Lecturers and administrators also raised issues regarding the verification of information and adherence to academic ethics. The study emphasizes that while ChatGPT can support academic tasks, it should be used in conjunction with strategies that promote independent thinking and creativity. Recommendations include skill training, establishing clear usage policies, and integrating ChatGPT into curricula to optimize its benefits and sustain academic development, aligning with global trends in AI-enhanced higher education. The results offer valuable global insights.
Impact of digital formative evaluation tools on Bachelor of Secondary Education English students
This study assessed the effectiveness and acceptability of digital formative assessment tools among Bachelor of Secondary Education majors in English students during the second semester of 2023 - 2024. A descriptive survey questionnaire was employed to gather necessary data and information on the effectiveness and acceptability levels of the digital assessment tools used. Facebook was identified as the most popular social media platform among students, and smartphones, particularly those with the Android operating system were the only devices accessible to the BSED English students. Most respondents rated Google Forms as effective in function, features, reliability, and security. The relationship between the effectiveness and acceptability of the digital assessment tools was analyzed using Pearson’s r coefficient to determine if a significant correlation exists. The overall relationship between the two variables was significant (r = 0.75, p = 0.01). However, based on pairwise correlation of indicators, the dimension of Google Forms did not significantly correlate with the overall level of effectiveness (r = 0.103, p > 0.01).
Comparative analysis of the implementation of transformative education in Ekiti State’s public and private schools, Nigeria
This study examines the challenges and opportunities of implementing transformative education in public and private schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive research design of the survey type. The population of the study includes all teachers, school administrators, and policymakers in private and public secondary schools in Ekiti State. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 200 respondents, comprising 100 participants from public schools and 100 from private schools in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The sample was selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire, focusing on various aspects affecting the implementation of transformative education, including resource availability, curriculum flexibility, and teacher preparedness. The research questions were analysed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation, while the hypotheses were tested using t-test analysis at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings reveal that there are disparities between public and private schools, particularly in resource distribution, curriculum adaptability, and professional development opportunities. Public schools are hindered by a lack of resources and administrative support, traditional teaching methods, and rigid curricula, which impede the adoption of innovative teaching practices. In contrast, private schools benefit from better funding and more flexible curricula, facilitating effective transformative education. Recommendations include prioritising equitable funding, developing adaptable curricula, and fostering collaboration between public and private institutions to improve educational practices and outcomes. Addressing these challenges is significant for fostering a more inclusive and innovative education system in Nigeria.
Students’ lived experiences in learning English language in a hybrid learning modality: A phenomenology
This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of students learning English in the hybrid learning modality. Employing a qualitative research method, specifically the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the data were gathered from seven informants using a purposive sampling technique and an interview guide. The study identified themes branching into two facets: Perceptions of students toward English language learning in a hybrid learning modality and Challenges encountered by students learning English language in a hybrid learning modality. Perceptions manifested themes such as Enhanced Independent Learning and Welfare, Improved learning materials or/and information, draining impact of online class, and Overreliance on technology that affects the quality of learning experience. Meanwhile, Challenges emerged in themes like financial constraints, poor network speed, and the Instructor’s technological ineptitude as a barrier to effective English learning. The study suggests that a hybrid environment is advantageous, particularly during online sessions, emphasizing the importance of tailored guidelines for instructors in a hybrid setup to optimize the learning experience. It revealed that students encountered both complexities and successes within the hybrid modality, advocating for the conceptualization of a concept plan containing comprehensive plans and guides to proactively ensure an equitable and enriching language learning experience for students.
Exploring English majors’ vocabulary development and attitudes through extensive listening to TED talks
Engaging English majors in extensive listening to TED Talks (ELTED) could enhance their vocabulary and language competence as well as provide diverse insights for academic growth. However, most previous research focused only on the relationship between Extensive Listening (EL) on Receptive Vocabulary Knowledge (ReVK) and lacked a thorough investigation into the influences of EL on learners’ Productive Vocabulary Knowledge (ProVK) over the years. Hence, this research initiates on enhancing English majors’ vocabulary knowledge through ELTED, in terms of both ReVK and ProVK. In addition, this study also examines the effects of ELTED on learners’ attitudes towards ELTED. Using a mixed-methods approach, 88 English majors from 02 intact classes are divided into experimental and control groups. Pre- and post-tests measure aural ReVK through the Listening Vocabulary Levels Test (LVLT), and only the post-test measures oral ProVK by evaluating the participants’ Speaking Unit Assignments. Additionally, a survey and an interview were conducted to gather quantitative and qualitative data on their practicing experience, along with attitudes toward ELTED. The results reveal that ELTED improves ReVK and ProVK significantly, and most learners generally had positive attitudes toward ELTED, strongly suggesting ELTED’s potential for inspiring future research in this field.
Extensive listening: Effects and experiences of high school students in Vietnam
High school students in Vietnam still struggle with listening skills after many years of learning English because of the forms-focused instructions. To improve students’ listening skills, the study employed extensive listening skills. The current study employed mixed methods to examine whether extensive listening had any effects on high school students’ listening performance. Participants were 100 high school students divided into 2 groups: the Experimental Group (EG) and the Control Group (CG). The EG was additionally exposed to extensive listening outside the classroom for around 06 months. The study used pre-and post-tests to measure improvement in the students’ listening skills after the treatment, and an interview with 10 students in the EG to clarify their experiences with extensive listening. The study showed that extensive listening could help high school students improve their listening skills. Furthermore, students admitted that extensive listening benefited their general language learning and listening skills.
Evaluating of disability support programs in Maasin City, Philippines: Bridging gaps in social inclusion in Southeast Asia
This study evaluates the implementation of disability programs in Maasin City, Philippines, focusing on the extent of social inclusion for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). Using a descriptive research design, the study gathered data from a sample of PWDs to assess the effectiveness of programs across five key areas: employment, education, health, auxiliary social services, accessibility, and political and civil rights. The findings of the study show that health, accessibility, and political and civil rights programs are implemented adequately with a mean score of 2.59, 2.79, and 2.70, respectively, however, employment, education, and auxiliary social services are inadequately implemented with a mean score of 1.96, 2.23, and 2.26, respectively. The identified problems impede the very inclusion of PWDs in the community; thus, interventions are needed to address it. The findings of this research conclude that even if there is progress in some areas, full implementation of the program is still lacking, as revealed by the grand mean of 2.42. This study emphasizes further that there is a need for improvement in service delivery with specific recommendations to upgrade or improve the infrastructure, create programs that are solely intended for PWDs in order to significantly reduce social exclusion gaps. Such results are crucial for developing policies and managing resources for an inclusive Southeast Asia society for PWDs.
Leadership style and management skills as predictors of hospitality and tourism management students’ leadership behavior
In today’s competitive hospitality and tourism industry, cultivating effective leadership behaviors among students is vital for their future success. This study examines the predictive relationship between leadership styles and management skills on the leadership behavior of Hospitality Management (HM) and Tourism Management (TM) students. Understanding this interplay can guide the enhancement of educational programs to shape future industry leaders. A cross-sectional quantitative approach was employed, involving 204 students from a private institution. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation, ANOVA, and regression analysis. Results show that students demonstrate high leadership styles, strong management skills, and evident leadership behaviors. Management skills significantly vary by age, while leadership styles and behaviors remain consistent across demographic variables. A significant negative correlation between leadership styles and management skills suggests differing focus areas in developing these competencies, emphasizing the need for balanced educational strategies. However, the relationships between leadership styles and behavior, and management skills and behavior were not statistically significant, highlighting the potential influence of external and organizational factors on leadership behavior. These findings underscore the complexity of leadership development and the necessity of holistic educational and training programs that extend beyond individual perceptions. The study recommends integrating transformational leadership and management skill development in the program to better prepare students for leadership roles in the hotel and tourism industries. This has implications for curriculum designers, educators, and industry professionals aiming to foster well-rounded future leaders in hospitality and tourism.
Lived experiences of community volunteers: Exploring volunteerism during the pandemic
This is a qualitative study using descriptive phenomenology on the lived experiences of community volunteers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Data were collected through interviews, using a semi-structured questionnaire and interview guide. The respondents of the study were 24 community volunteers who assisted in the relief operation when the city was placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). Results showed that the reasons for volunteering include social responsibility, ease of boredom, and establishing friendships. Despite the fear of contracting the virus, community volunteers assisted in the repacking of rice, canned goods, sugar, legumes, and food items. Other tasks include inventory of the packed goods, sorting and organizing food packs, unloading and loading relief goods to transport trucks, encoding the names of household heads, making reports, and monitoring statistics and distribution of relief goods. The values inherent in the community volunteers are compassion, optimism, and selflessness. The lived experiences of community volunteers shed insights into the importance of volunteerism and the need to support them in the volunteering process.
Effective learning English for specific purposes in multi-level classes: Students’perceptions, obstacles and solutions
This study investigates students’ interest in English for specific purposes and examines the challenges in practical learning, drawing on Richards’ Language Teaching theory (Richards, 2006) and language teaching and learning principles. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating qualitative (interviews) and quantitative (surveys) techniques. Data was gathered from 45 students using a study based on a 4-point Likert Scale. The findings reveal that while most students are keen on learning specialized English, fear of practicing, inadequate facilities, and oversized classes hinder the teaching and learning process. It is suggested that all three stakeholders involved in teaching and learning should take proactive steps to address these issues.
The impact of technology on academic procrastination among Vietnamese students
In recent years, the rapid development of technology has brought numerous positive changes to students’ learning and research processes. However, alongside technology’s conveniences, the influence of online learning environments, social networks, and entertainment applications has made it increasingly easy for students to become distracted and neglect their studies, leading to negative impacts - particularly academic procrastination, which results in declining educational performance. This article aims to identify the influencing factors and the role of technological factors in academic procrastination among Vietnamese students. Analyses using Cronbach’s Alpha, EFA, KMO, and Linear Regression on a dataset collected from a survey of 839 students across various universities in Vietnam have confirmed three factors in the adjusted research model: Social Media Usage (SCM), Video Gaming (VDG), and Streaming Platform Usage (WOV), which have profound effects on Academic Procrastination (PIL). These factors significantly influence Academic Procrastination (PIL), with Video gaming showing the most substantial impact on male students (Beta = 0.352) and Streaming platforms affecting female students most notably (Beta = 0.221). This study suggests various methods to reduce academic procrastination brought on by students’ excessive technology usage. In particular, the study emphasizes the value of creating interactive educational resources and planning courses on time management and efficient use of technology. Essential elements of the suggested approach also include developing customized time management apps, including digital literacy and self-control into the curriculum, and starting extensive public awareness campaigns. It’s also crucial to work with tech companies to create solutions that are easy to use and promote efficient time management.
Love in L2 and English as a foreign language/English as a second language education: Importance, integration, and implications
This narrative literature review examines the literature on the importance and integration of love in second language (L2) and English as a Foreign Language/English as a Second Language (EFL/ESL) education. We collected, analyzed, and synthesized data thematically from various academic sources, including books, journal articles, doctoral dissertations, and master’s theses. The findings are organized into two themes: (1) insights from psychology regarding love as a foundational emotion in L2 education, and (2) insights into and questions about some attempts in the discourse of integrating love in EFL/ESL contexts. We identify a research gap in the lack of direct and explicit exploration of love in L2 education and offer several actionable recommendations for further research and educators’ practice. Additionally, within the discourse of EFL/ESL education, we acknowledge contributions from a recent phenomenographic study while discussing its unclear contextualization and raising critical questions about some of its findings. Furthermore, we critically examine some existing models for loving pedagogy. Ultimately, we encourage L2 and EFL/ESL professionals and enthusiasts to engage in ongoing exploration and implementation of love-based approaches in education. We anticipate their proposed frameworks, whether exclusively applicable to L2 and EFL/ESL education or open to education more broadly, originating from the tertiary education level. These frameworks have the potential to impact the field significantly.
Cultural validation of the PERMA-Profiler: A well-being measure for Vietnamese college students
Psychological well-being issues have become more prevalent among college students worldwide in recent years, especially during and after the Covid-19 outbreak (Nurunnabi et al., 2020). Given the critical role that psychological well-being plays in improving academic success for college students, researchers have focused on developing and validating various measurement tools to assess it. The PERMA-Profiler has become one of the most widely used instruments. This questionnaire has been tested for validity and reliability across Western and Latin American populations; however, its applicability in Vietnamese contexts remains unexplored. This study aimed to translate and adapt the PERMA-Profiler for Vietnamese college students and determine its validity and reliability using factor analysis, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. After analyzing the factor structure and reliability, the questionnaire was shortened from 23 items to 18 items, with four factors identified: relationships, meaning and achievement, positive emotion, and negative emotion. Internal consistency of each factor ranged from minimally acceptable to high, with Cronbach’s Alpha values of .65, .89, .85, and .83. Test-retest reliability demonstrated minimal to adequate temporal stability for three of the four factors, with values of .66 (p = .001), .68 (p = .001), and .77 (p < .001) over 11 weeks. These results demonstrated that the adapted instrument provides a reliable and valid tool for assessing psychological well-being among Vietnamese college students.
Key components of digital games in grammar learning: Insights from English majors
The integration of games into educational settings has become increasingly common due to advancements in educational technology, yet using Game-Based Learning (GBL) in Grammar classes remains challenging because games’ features do not align with students’ needs. Therefore, the theoretical basis of this study consists of four game elements - Play, Pretending, Goal, and Rule - as well as the game components within these (Adams, 2014), which form the foundation for designing games for Game-Based Learning (Al-Azawi et al., 2016) in Grammar classes. Based on the foundation of these theories, this study developed the questionnaire and interview to collect data from 150 university students, plus utilized the mixed-method approach to strengthen the case study design and enhance the validity and credibility of findings through triangulation. The collected data showed three crucial components for designing games to teach Grammar university students: clear rules, fair rules, and appropriate difficulty levels. Additionally, specific preferences highlighted by students included cute visual styles, gradually increasing difficulty levels, and the game mode not requiring overly active participation, such as choosing correct answers within a reasonable time limit. These findings enable teachers to apply technology in higher education more effectively and provide criteria for them to design educational games that meet students’ needs, thereby enhancing the learning experience in Grammar classes.
Evaluating the impact of AI-powered tools on programming skills development among IT students at Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU)
This study evaluated the impact of AI integration on the development of computer programming skills among Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students at Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU). Using a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative research design, data were collected and analyzed from a sample of 100 students across all academic year levels from first year to fourth year using Quota sampling. This involved administering survey questionnaires to measure their programming skill proficiency and skill development with AI integrations. The findings indicated that AI integration significantly enhanced programming skills, with senior students showing the most improvement. This suggested that prolonged exposure to AI tools contributed to higher proficiency levels. The implications highlighted the necessity of incorporating AI into the IT curriculum to better prepare students for the tech industry, enhance problem-solving skills, and promote independent learning. This study contributed original insights into the educational value of AI, emphasizing its potential to transform programming education by fostering advanced technical skills and better academic outcomes
Blended learning in higher education: Correlating teaching presence, student engagement, and satisfaction
Blended learning is a new modality for most public higher education institutions in the Philippines. Thus, limited studies have examined the teaching-learning dynamics of the classroom in this context. This study sought to determine the levels of teaching presence, student engagement, and satisfaction among undergraduate students in teacher education programs at a state university adapting a blended learning environment and to correlate these variables to examine how they are associated. Using three standardized questionnaires, data were collected from 419 randomly selected undergraduate teacher education students using a descriptive-correlational research design. The data gathered were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and Pearson r correlation. Results revealed high levels of teaching presence (M = 4.09), student engagement (M = 3.97), and student satisfaction (M = 3.76) among respondents, suggesting that students felt well-guided, engaged, and satisfied with the blended learning modality. Moreover, this study found a strong positive correlation among these variables, indicating that higher teaching presence enhances student engagement and satisfaction, and increased engagement leads to greater satisfaction. These findings corroborate earlier research emphasizing the critical roles of teaching presence and student engagement in student satisfaction, underscoring their importance in implementing blended learning effectively. The study recommends strategies to enhance blended learning in higher education further.
Evaluation of ESP textbooks using a checklist method: The case of English for air traffic control at Vietnam Aviation Academy
Textbook evaluation aids educators in selecting appropriate teaching materials. This study focuses on the checklist method for evaluating ESP course books, specifically “Aviation English for ICAO Compliance” (Emery et al., 2008) at the Vietnam Aviation Academy to assess its suitability for Air Traffic Control students and their English proficiency requirements. The research underscores the necessity of rigorous textbook evaluation to ensure high-quality English instruction in ESP classrooms. While “Aviation English for ICAO Compliance” (Emery et al., 2008) excels in vocabulary and practical applications, the findings indicate a need for enhanced cultural content and more interactive exercises. These insights stress the importance of ongoing evaluation and adaptation of teaching materials to meet educational needs effectively. The detailed analysis reveals that continuous improvement in these areas will better prepare students for real-world Air Traffic Control scenarios, ultimately contributing to safer and more efficient aviation operations.
The implementation of collaborative writing in EFL upper secondary school classrooms: A case study
This single case study investigated the implementation of Collaborative Writing (CW) in an EFL upper secondary school classroom through the lens of Activity Theory (Engestrom, 1987). Data were collected from classroom observations and semi-structured interviews and analyzed to identify recurrent themes later mapped onto the activity system framework. The findings reveal that the teacher’s active role in providing scaffolding and feedback is crucial in collaborative writing. Additionally, the strategic division of labor within student groups and the teacher’s ongoing support significantly enhance the group’s ability to meet the curriculum’s educational objectives. The study further emphasizes the critical role of the classroom community, which is shaped by external factors such as academic policies, cultural norms, and students’ language proficiency and attitudes toward learning. These factors necessitate the creation of an inclusive and supportive environment where clear rules, structured roles, and appropriate tools are aligned with the specific needs of the students. These findings suggest that for CW to be effectively implemented, teachers must consider these community-related factors and adapt their instructional strategies accordingly.
Acing the licensure examination for professional teachers: Narratives from the repeaters
Passing the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers is a critical milestone in the teaching profession. However, some educators, referred to as repeaters, face the challenge of passing the examination after multiple attempts. This study explores the experiences of Social Studies educators who graduated from a state university in Bataan, Philippines, and eventually passed the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers after initially failing. The research addresses two key questions: (1) What are the realizations of repeaters in failing the licensure examination? and (2) What are the realizations of repeaters from passing the licensure examination after a previous failure? This narrative inquiry study engaged eight (8) participants selected through purposive sampling. The findings reveal that participants transformed their setbacks into valuable learning experiences and adopted comprehensive strategies to enhance their readiness for the examination. The study also emphasizes the significance of self-motivation, resilience, and personal accountability as critical factors in achieving success. The narratives of the repeaters highlight essential indicators for passing the licensure examination and provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by repeaters. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of adopting diverse and appropriate preparation strategies for all examinees aiming to excel in the teaching licensure examination.
Cebuano-Visayan influence in English Language acquisition: Turning challenges into opportunities
Learning a new language is a challenging journey filled with obstacles, but these difficulties can transform into powerful tools, turning you into a highly effective and fluent communicator. In lieu of proposing a learning packet to make this possible, this research investigated the Cebuano-Visayan linguistic interference on the students’ school publication corpora at one of the secondary schools in the Division of Danao City, Academic Year 2023 - 2024. Qualitative content analysis was utilized in this research, which involved comparing the primary language, Cebuano-Visayan, and the second language, English, and analyzing the linguistic interference of the primary language on the 28 written outputs of students. Based on the findings, there is Cebuano-Visayan linguistic interference in the outputs of students in subject-verb agreement, verb tenses, and the use of prepositions, pronouns, and articles. This can be seen through the errors in their sentences. Thus, it is recommended to utilize the learning packet crafted through this study to acknowledge, address, and utilize these linguistic interferences to produce more accurate and coherent English writing, ultimately facilitating clearer communication and academic success.
Becoming a bayani: Exploring Filipino college students’ social constructs of modern-day heroism
The objective of this qualitative study was to investigate perspectives on modern-day heroism using narrative inquiry as a research design. The study focused on sophomore college students enrolled in GEC courses, who were selected using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Data was collected through open-ended surveys and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). The study’s thematic analysis identified the qualities of a modern-day hero as being inclined towards goodness, sacrificial, helpful, compassionate, and influential in empowering others. Notable models of modern-day heroes encompass parents, friends, teachers, overseas Filipino workers, and the frontline. The study’s insights could potentially inform the development of educational materials for civics, values education, and ethics.
Unraveling the mediating role of environmental attitude and the moderating role of altruism in the pro-environmental behavior of Vietnamese domestic tourists
For tourism to grow sustainably, promoting Pro-Environmental Behavior (PEB) among tourists is crucial for the sustainable growth of tourism. This is the first study to focus on Vietnamese tourists and the variables that influence their PEB. An integrated structural model of PEB was developed by drawing on postulates from the Norm Activation Model (NAM) and Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). Data from 306 tourists who visited Vietnam locations were analyzed in our study. It was found through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) that there is a significant direct association between Perceived Severity (PS), Perceived Vulnerability (PV), and PEB. The relationship between PS, PV, and PEB is mediated by Environmental Attitude (EA). Also, Altruism (AL) plays a significant moderating role in the EA and PEB relationship. This suggests that both EA and AL are key factors in shaping Vietnamese domestic tourists’ PEB. The findings, which include the correlations between the variables, provide credence to the theoretical framework that was suggested. To enhance PEB, tourism agencies should make visitors’ PS, PV, and AL more prominent.