Lived experiences of non-education graduate teachers in teaching Mathematics during the pandemic

COVID-19 pandemic caused a huge impact in the lives of many, especially to the people in the teaching arena. Both seasoned and new teachers, who are non-education graduates, met a plethora of personal and professional challenges that shaped their human perspective. Nevertheless, the pandemic charged these teachers with significant efforts for transformation that eventually change educational landscape. This phenomenological study described the realizations and explored the challenges and coping mechanisms of non-education graduate teachers teaching mathematics, focusing on their experiences with the new learning modality during the pandemic. Using semi-structured interviews to four (4) purposively selected informants, the researcher was able to extract themes that described the informants' lived experiences in teaching Mathematics during the pandemic. The result of this qualitative study, through the extracted themes via thematic analysis, revealed that these teachers struggled with professional, personal, and mental health-related issues as the transition to virtual and modular learning necessitated significant adjustments in teaching strategies, including issues related to student motivation and engagement. It is then recommended that all stakeholders be fully aware of the efforts of these non-education graduate mathematics teachers to deliver and address learning gaps despite the pandemic. Pedagogical and theoretical implications were discussed in the study

Prazer esportivo na resiliência acadêmica: Questão inexplorada dos atletas-estudantes no cenário do ensino superior nas Filipinas

Pesquisas anteriores estabeleceram que os alunos que obtêm prazer ao se envolver em esportes podem ter uma influência vantajosa em sua resiliência em atividades acadêmicas. No entanto, embora haja uma quantidade significativa de pesquisas realizadas sobre esse tópico internacionalmente, há uma falta de estudos focados especificamente no contexto do ensino superior nas Filipinas. O estudo tentou verificar a influência imediata do prazer esportivo na resiliência acadêmica. Ao coletar dados de 229 estudantes-atletas em uma universidade estadual específica, observou-se que o prazer esportivo e a resiliência acadêmica estão positiva e significativamente relacionados [r(227) = 0,299, p <0,05]. Além disso, observou-se que o prazer esportivo tem uma influência favorável na resiliência acadêmica [F(1, 229) = 22,228, p <0,001]. As descobertas sugerem que o envolvimento em eventos esportivos diversos pode ter um efeito benéfico importante no desempenho acadêmico e reduzir as dificuldades em um ambiente acadêmico exigente. Direções e recomendações de pesquisas futuras são apresentadas neste artigo. Palavras-chave: Resiliência acadêmica; Prazer esportivo; Estudantes-atletas.Previous research have established that students who derive enjoyment from engaging in sports can have an advantageous influence on their resilience in academic pursuits. However, while there is a significant amount of research undertaken on this topic internationally, there is a lack of studies specifically focused on the Higher Education context in the Philippines. The study attempted to ascertain the immediate influence of sports enjoyment on academic resilience. Upon collecting data from 229 student-athletes at a particular state university, it was observed that sports enjoyment and academic resilience are positively and significantly related [r(227) = .299, p <.05]. Additionally, it was noted that the enjoyment of sports has a favorable influence on academic resilience [F(1, 227) = 22.228, p <.001]. The findings suggest that engaging in diverse sports events can have an important beneficial effect on academic achievement and reduce difficulties in a demanding academic setting. Future research directions and recommendations are presented in this pape

Contextualized learning work text in selected topics in Mathematics 7

This developmental research study aimed to create contextualized instructional materials tailored to address specific challenges in understanding fractions among Grade 7 learners. Data gathering instruments included learners' diagnostic tests, teacher interviews, expert evaluation forms, and learner satisfaction surveys. The Students' Diagnostic Test comprised 50 items covering essential fraction topics, evaluated on a binary scale. Thorough analysis identified the five least mastered competencies, informing the development of contextualized work text. Teacher interviews, based on open-ended guide questions evaluated by experts, explored instructional material using Likert-type checklist. The analysis revealed a lack of mastery in various fraction competencies among Grade 7 learners, emphasizing the need for targeted support. The participants included Grade 7 mathematics teachers, learners, and experts, selected based on specific criteria to ensure diverse perspectives. The data collection adhered to the ADDIE model, with consent obtained from school principals. Mean and standard deviation were used for data analysis, with thematic analysis applied to teacher interview responses. The contextualized work text for fractions included components like Objectives, Vocabulary Bank, Lesson Proper, Try This, and Assessment, catering to diverse learning styles. Expert evaluation confirmed its adequacy across domains, while learners satisfaction indicated positive outcomes. In conclusion, the developed work text effectively addresses learners' needs for contextualized instructional materials in understanding fractions. Its comprehensive design and positive feedback suggest it can enhance learner engagement and comprehension in Grade 7 mathematics. Based on the results, the contextualized work text was very much valid and very much acceptable. It was recommended that other teachers should also develop contextualized materials to help create more meaningful teaching and learning experiences

Pagbuo ng instructional package sa komunikasyon at pananaliksik sa wika at kulturang Pilipino

Ang debelopmental na pag-aaral na ito ay naglayong makabuo at makataya ng isang instructional package bilang kagamitang pampagtuturo sa mga hindi natamong kompetensi ng mga mag-aaral sa asignaturang Komunikasyon at Pananaliksik sa Wika at Kulturang Pilipino (KPWKP). Ang limang napabilang sa mababang ranggo ng hindi natamong kompetensi sa KPWKP na naging batayan sa pagbuo ng Instructional Package ay 1) Nakapagbibigay ng opinyon o pananaw kaugnay sa mga napakinggang pagtalakay sa wikang pambansa 2) Natitiyak ang mga sanhi at bunga ng mga pangyayaring may kaugnayan sa pag-unlad ng wikang Pambansa, 3) Natutukoy ang balita sa radyo at telebisyon, 4) Nasusuri at naisasaalang-alang ang mga lingguwistiko at kultural na pagkakaiba-iba sa lipunang Pilipino sa mga pelikula at dulang napanood, 5) Napipili ang angkop na mga salita at paraan ng paggamit nito sa mga usapan o talakayan batay sa kausap, pinag-uusapan, lugar, panahon, layunin, at grupong kinabibilangan, Ang instructional package na kinapapalooban ng modyul at powerpoint presentation ay dumaan sa masusing balidasyon ng mga guro at eskperto sa pagbuo ng kagamitang pampagtuturo. Matapos itong marebisa ayon sa komento at suhestiyon ng mga balideytor ay tinaya ang antas ng pagtanggap nito. Sa kabuuan napakataas ng antas ng binuong instructional package batay sa pagtataya ng mga guro na eksperto sa pagbuo ng kagamitang pampagtuturo. Ito ay mabisang alternatibong kagamitan na magagamit upang matulungan ang mga mag-aaral na mapalawak ang kanilang kaalaman at lubos na matutuhan ang mga hindi natamong kompetensi sa asignaturang KPWKP. Iminumungakahi ng mananaliksik na gamitin ang modyul bilang alternatibong kagamitang pampagtuturo sa asignaturang KPWKP

Indigenous knowledge of medicinal fruits in the Philippines: A systematic review

Medicinal fruits as adjunct therapy are promising for acute and chronic diseases. However, the role of these fruits remains largely unexplored. This study reviewed the evidence-based efficacy of these fruits used by indigenous people in the Philippines. Indigenous knowledge on using medicinal fruits was searched in the Philippine Traditional Knowledge Digital Health Library database. Medical research databases [Medline, Scopus, GreenFILE, ProQuest, HERDIN, and JSTOR] were queried from inception to April 2022. Searches were in English and Filipino language publications. A narrative synthesis was conducted and 30 articles from the Philippine Traditional Knowledge Digital Health Library database identified the medicinal fruits used among indigenous people in the Philippines. Moreover, 40 articles that included 17 experimental research, 20 reviews, and 3 published reports pointed to the evidence-based effectiveness of these fruits. According to this review, the medicinal fruits included were scientifically evaluated for their medicinal properties, including their anti-oxidant and phytochemical attributes. However, the scientific evidence from previous literature indicated that most experiments constituted in vitro and animal models. Traditional medicine and scientific evidence revealed the protective effects of these fruits against various ailments. Since there were not many human intervention trials available, researchers can study the potential health effects of these therapeutic fruits by using human models in the future. Due to the various health benefits of these indigenous fruits, it is essential to explore their disease-fighting capabilities and convert them into nutraceuticals or functional food ingredients

Unearthing the culinary heritage of Antique through the local gatekeepers: Basis for the developments of a culinary school management model

This qualitative research delves into Antique's culinary heritage, emphasizing intangible aspects passed down through generations. Anchored on Interpretivist and Social Interactionism Theory, it adopts a qualitative design, conducting in-depth interviews and observations with six participants representing various Antique heritage dishes. Secondary sources, like internet-derived photos and blog posts, complement the primary data. Following Braun and Clarke's theme analysis, data collected from May 6 to May 14 is translated, transcribed, and organized. Four themes emerge: (1) "Hands to Stomach: Antique's Culinary Practices," (2) "Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Antique's Food Customs," (3) "Vast Windows of Opportunities for Antique," and (4) "Explicating Stories of Struggles." Findings inform the creation of a culinary school management model, providing a structured framework for efficient school operation. The study identifies challenges to culinary heritage, such as globalization, urbanization, socio-economic factors, and changing lifestyles, emphasizing the need for preservation efforts. It underscores the role of culinary heritage as integral to intangible cultural heritage, urging community-based initiatives, education, and policies for preservation. In conclusion, the research highlights the significance of local gatekeepers and culinary heritage in sustaining cultural diversity and fostering social cohesion. Recognizing and valuing intangible food traditions allows societies to embrace their collective past, paving the way for a more inclusive and culturally vibrant future

Landscape of genetic counseling in the Philippines

In this paper, we report on the professional development of genetic counselors in the Philippines as we discuss the status of genetic counseling training and research, along with the roles and scope of practice of genetic counselors. The development of a master's level training program for non-physician genetic counselors in the Philippines initiated in 2011 was in response to the increasing demand for genetic counseling services. There are currently 18 locally trained genetic counselors who are practicing in various fields including newborn screening, pediatrics, cancer, prenatal and preconception, neurology, and research. Despite the success of the genetic counseling training program, various professional challenges hinder maximizing the impact of genetic counselors in the health system. The challenges discussed in this paper include the limited number of genetic counselors, the lack of government positions officially recognizing the ‘genetic counselor’ title, and the absence of a regulatory framework. These issues require thorough discussion with appropriate government agencies and collaboration with other healthcare professional organizations with the ultimate goal of ensuring quality genetic counseling services nationwide

Predictors of fecal coliform in Iloilo-Batiano River Basin, Iloilo Philippines

Fecal coliform (FC) is a key water quality parameter and indicator of bacterial contamination from human and animal wastes used by the DENR-EMB on their periodic monitoring of water quality management areas (WQMA) in the Philippines. IBRB is a WQMA classified as a Class C water body, following the standards set by DENR DAO No. 2016-08 and 2021-19. The current study assessed the relationship of FC loading along IBRB with that of other water quality parameters and physical and environmental factors. Mean FC load along IBRB was 6.99 x 105 MPN/1OOmL, over the standard limit for Class C waters. FC was found to have a positive and significant relationship with SAMPLING-POINT (z=.876; p=.O22) and TSS (/=.899; .015); while negative and significant relationships were observed with pH (r=-1.000; p=.000) and TEMP_C (r=-.999; p =.000). Multiple regression analysis further showed SAMPLING-POINT, pH, and TSS highly explains FC load in IBRB (R2=1.000; p=.000); wherein, FC loading increases together with increasing TSS, moving towards IBRB's headwaters, and as pH decreases. TSS was also found to have a positive and significant relationship with rainfall (/=.727; p=.O26), driving TSS loading in IBRB - increasing FC load. The study demonstrated the critical drivers of FC loading in IBRB. This could serve as basis for interventions and improvements on the management of IBRB by the local government units of Iloilo City and Oton by focusing on fecal contamination on domestic waters and water ways along populated areas; securing clean water and public health. The DPWH together with the LGUs may also improve sewage systems to prevent siltation along IBRB most especially during heavy rainfall events, while DENR-EMB could also make use of the results in implementing measures and strategies in preventing possible increase in FC load - focusing on identified areas that needs to have clean water management interventions

eKinematics: Teaching-learning package with interactive simulations

Numerous researches showed that senior high school learners struggle with difficulties in understanding important motion concepts in General Physics. This research aimed to determine the least; learned competencies (LLCs) of South Cotabato learners in Kinematics as bases for the development and evaluation of eKinematics package comprising a (1) teacher's e-manual, a (2) learner's e-module, and (3) interactive simulations for Grade 12 General Physics I. The study was participated in by 14 Physics teachers for the identification of LLCs; six jurors for the evaluation; seven teachers and 41 learners for the tryout of eKinematics. Research & Development (R&D) design was employed in the study. Eight LLCs were identified as baseline guide on the design and development of the package which include the interpreting of motions graphs on ID and 2D dimensions, solving for unknown quantities, and deducing the consequences of the independence of vertical and horizontal components of projectile motion. The electronic teaching- learning materials which contained ready lecture slides, GIF files, and online answer link option portals were produced in PDF formats, while the five interactive simulations (ISIMs) were developed using Adobe Acrobat CC 2015 and Small Basic with html formats. Content experts found the learning objectives of teacher's e-manual and learner's e-module to be highly attainable, very clear and very relevant. The contents were evaluated as very appealing, very appropriate, very innovative, and strongly conforming. Furthermore, IT experts evaluated very good the developed ISIMs in terms of content, instructional, and technical qualities. The overall evaluation of eKinematics not only showed very supplementary tools but also perceived by General Physics subject teachers and learners as potential teaching and learning package in Kinematics, hence, recommended to be used in the K-12 curriculum

Librarians’ civic roles and responsibilities: Issues in information crises and information disorders

Мета: Публічні бібліотеки можуть бути сильними прихильниками громадянської активності. Вони несуть відповідальність за відродження громадянського суспільства, освіту та інформування населення. Бібліотеки повинні розширити свою роль за межі фізичного та віртуального простору, щоб сприяти громадянським практикам у боротьбі з фейковими новинами. Бібліотеки можуть використовувати свій вплив, щоб допомогти студентам і бібліотекарям виявляти дезінформацію та застерігати інших від її поширення. Ця стаття має на меті представити, як бібліотекарі можуть активізувати свою громадянську роль і визначити інформаційні порушення. Методика: Бібліотекарі публічних бібліотек були опитані за допомогою дискурс аналізу, щоб визначити інформаційні виклики професії та зрозуміти їхню громадянську роль. Результати: Бібліотекарі публічних бібліотек визначили різні способи виконання своєї громадянської ролі, а також сформулювали кілька понять у визначенні інформаційних розладів. Висновки: Це пілотне дослідження дає уявлення про те, як бібліотекарі публічних бібліотек взаємодіють з інформацією та фільтрують дезінформацію, що циркулює в соціальних мережах. Суспільна бібліотечна справа очевидна, але бібліотекарі стикаються з професійними викликами. Хоча це дослідження зосереджене на бібліотекарях публічних бібліотек, автори вважають, що багато аспектів можуть застосовуватись до всіх типів бібліотекарів.Objective: Public libraries can be powerful advocates for civic engagement. They have a responsibility to rekindle civil society and educate and inform the public. Libraries must expand their role beyond physical and virtual space to promote civic practices in fighting fake news. Libraries can use their influence to help students and librarians identify misinformation and caution others against sharing it. This paper aims to introduce how librarians can activate their civic roles and define information disorders. Methods: Public librarians were interviewed using discourse analysis to identify the profession's information challenges and understand their civic roles. Results: Public librarians identified a variety of ways to perform their civic roles, and several constructs emerged in the definition of information disorders. Conclusions: This pilot study offers a glimpse into how public librarians interact with information and filter misinformation circulating on social media. Civic librarianship is evident, but librarians face professional challenges. Although this study focuses on public librarians, the authors believe that many aspects can be accustomed by all types of librarians