Sorsogon State University

This study developed and validated a set of Grade 7 science lessons on ecosystem topics by integrating Collaborative, Active, and Inquiry-based (CAI) learning strategies to enhance students’ conceptual understanding, engagement, and environmental literacy. Anchored in the ADDIE model, the research employed a descriptive developmental design involving expert validation using DepEd’s LRMDS tool and a CAI integration rubric, alongside a pilot test with 45 students. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired sample t-tests, and Cohen’s d, while qualitative feedback was thematically analyzed. Findings showed that the lessons were rated “Very Much Evident” in CAI features (M = 4.80) and “Very Satisfactory” in quality by experts. Students likewise reported high levels of engagement, clarity, and usability. Posttest results demonstrated significant gains across all four ecosystem topics, with effect sizes ranging from 1.80 to 3.43 and an overall gain from Low Mastery (48.3%) to Near Full Mastery (86.0%). The validated lessons not only promoted scientific understanding but also fostered peer collaboration, critical thinking, and ecological awareness through contextualized, student-centered learning experiences. This study presents an empirically grounded instructional model that addresses enduring challenges in Philippine science education by integrating social learning and inquiry processes into the delivery of environmental content. It offers a scalable, curriculum-aligned approach for transforming conventional science classrooms into participatory communities of inquiry.

Higher education institutions (HEIs) play a vital role in preparing the country’s future workforce by equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed, from enrollment to employment. This study analysed the employment outcomes of Sorsogon State University graduates from Batch 2021, focusing on trends in employment and unemployment rates by academic program, gender, and employment sector. A quantitative descriptive research design was utilized. Data were collected through an online survey of 824 graduates in the Engineering, Technology, Business and Management, Education, Information Technology (IT), and Agriculture and Fisheries programs. The study revealed that the majority of university graduates from Batch 2021 are employed, but the employment outcomes vary across academic programs. The graduates of the Technology, Business and Management, and Engineering programs had higher employment rates, whereas the graduates of the IT, Education, Agriculture, and Fisheries programs had higher unemployment rates. The gender-based trends showed that the male graduates of the Engineering and Technology programs had higher employment rates, whereas the female graduates of the Business and Management, Education, and Agriculture and Fisheries programs had better employment rates. Most graduates are employed in the private sector, with Engineering and Technology graduates leading in private sector jobs. Self-employment is more common among IT, business and management, and education graduates. There is a need to strengthen partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and international companies to create more job opportunities for programs with lower employment rates, particularly in IT, Education, Agriculture and Fisheries. Future research may be conducted to provide deeper insights into the factors influencing the employment outcomes of graduates.

Many secondary students continue to face conceptual challenges in understanding image formation by mirrors and lenses, often attributed to the topic’s abstract and spatial natur. This study developed and evaluated an electronic-based science module (e-BiSciMo) aligned with the Grade 10 K to 12 Science Competency S10FE-IIg-50. The module was designed to support independent learning using principles of multimedia instruction. A one-group pretest-posttest design involving 40 Grade 10 students was employed to examine changes in conceptual understanding following the implementation of the module. Quantitative data were analyzed using a paired-sample t-test and Cohen’s d. Results showed a statistically significant improvement in post-test scores (p = .0041), with a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 2.25), suggesting a meaningful gain in student performance. Expert validation using the DepEd LRMDS evaluation tool rated the module as “Very Satisfactory” in content, instructional quality, technical aspects, and accuracy. While the study was limited in scope, initial findings indicate the potential value of e-BiSciMo as a supplementary instructional tool in secondary science education.

Abstract Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping academic writing in higher education faster than institutions can develop evidence-informed guidance, leaving practice ahead of proof. To clarify what is happening and where benefits and risks cluster, the researchers conducted a scoping review structured by a Population–Concept–Context (PCC) frame and aligned with PRISMA-ScR procedures. Peer-reviewed, English-language empirical studies published from 2024 through Q2 2025 in higher-education settings were included, and findings were synthesized via convergent integration that juxtaposed quantitative distributions with qualitative themes. A total of 25 studies met criteria. Across populations and contexts, GenAI was most often positioned as assistive scaffolding across the planning-to-revision span of writing; reported benefits concentrated on organization, fluency, efficiency, and language support (notably for multilingual writers). Recurrent risks included hallucinations and unreliable or fabricated citations, inconsistent disclosure or attribution, and overreliance when use was unscaffolded; the limited reliability of AI-detection tools complicated integrity judgments. Context shaped practice: clearer policies and better access supported more constructive use, while the evidence base skews toward English-medium, well-resourced institutions and relies heavily on short-term or proxy outcomes. By integrating counts and themes within a PCC frame, this review offers an up-to-date evidence map that distinguishes where benefits reliably cluster (process-level supports) and where risks persist (source work and attribution), while surfacing salient gaps (faculty/postgraduate cohorts and Global South contexts). Overall, the pattern supports an assistive, not substitutive stance in which GenAI complements—rather than replaces—human judgment in argument construction, source interrogation, and synthesis.

Purpose of the study: This study developed and validated Home-Based Learning Activities (H-BLA) for teaching Physics inspired by the identified Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs) by the Department of Education (DepEd). Acknowledging the significance of adaptive and suitable learning materials. Methodology: The researchers employed the descriptive-developmental method to create and assess the developed home-based learning activities. The Learning Resources Management and Development System (LRMDS) evaluation tool of the Department of Education (DepEd) for printed materials is used and experts agreed that the developed H-BLA met the standards for printed learning materials. Main Findings: The expert validation revealed that the Home-Based Learning Activities (H-BLA) were highly acceptable in terms of content, format, accuracy, and up-to-datedness of information, with Factors 1, 2, and 4 receiving 'very satisfactory' ratings. However, the presentation and organization, corresponding to Factor 3, received only a 'satisfactory' rating, indicating room for improvement in the structure and flow of the materials. Novelty/Originality of this study: The study's novelty lies in developing validated Home-Based Learning Activities (H-BLA) for elementary Physics under the K-12 curriculum, utilizing accessible materials to foster independent learning. Grounded in Constructivist Theory, Dale's Cone of Experience, and Contextualized Teaching and Learning, it promotes experiential education. Expert validation and iterative improvement ensure quality, addressing gaps in remote and practical science education.

Purpose of the study: This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of Strategic Intervention Materials (SIM) in improving Filipino students' science and mathematics performance. Methodology: Fifteen eligible studies from three databases: Google Scholar, Crossref, and Semantic Scholar were chosen using Harzing’s Publish and Perish tool. The studies underwent meta-analysis using the Jamovi Tool. Main Findings: Using Strategic Intervention Material has a large average effect size (ES = 1.60) with most of the studies obtaining positive effect sizes (87%). In connection, the moderator analysis showed paper-based SIM has a relatively larger effect size than digital SIM, elementary level obtained a larger effect size than Junior and Senior High and science has larger effect size than mathematics. Nevertheless, all moderators obtained large effect sizes which means SIM is an effective classroom intervention across the different types, grade levels and content areas. Novelty/Originality of this study: This research introduces new insights into classroom intervention by exploring the use of Strategic Intervention Material (SIM) which was conceptualized and commonly used in the Philippines. The study opens discourse on the use of SIM to improve the learners’ science and mathematics achievement for possible adoption on a global scale.

Empirical evidence showed the prevalence of vote-buying in the country, particularly in rural areas targeting poor voters. This study explores the lived experiences of poor voters from rural areas on sobre vote-buying, the most prevalent type in the province. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by purposively selecting participants who experienced sobre vote-buying. Data gathered were analyzed through thematic analysis. Seven themes were developed to describe the participants' experience with sobre vote-buying. The study concluded that sobre vote-buying follows an established chain, keeps voters’ commitment, and furthers the patriarchal system. It likewise gauges the candidates’ seriousness to win. It is socially accepted due to its prevalence and justified by voter’s perception of rampant government corruption and inefficiency. To some extent, it remains an adequate inducement as participants lament the lack of trustworthy and competent candidates. The study recommends multisectoral voters' education, focusing on the ill effects of electing corrupt and incompetent officials.

Solar PV irrigation system (SPIS) has proven its potential to impact the agricultural sector. It is known for producing zero GHG emissions, and recent studies have proved its effectiveness compared to fuel-based pumps. However, some factors affecting its operations and economic viability that require further study. This study assessed the viability and sustainability of SPIS for providing rice irrigation in the province of Sorsogon, Philippines. Our objectives were to a) identify the optimal deployment locations, b) determine the most effective energy system configurations for rice irrigation, and c) assess the impact on achieving SDGs. Analysis showed that 17% of the province's total land area is suitable for SPIS deployment. A one-hectare land requires 3.302 kWh of energy per day and a water pump with a peak power of 1.1 kW. The optimal energy configuration provided an annual energy of 8,547 kWh from the Solar PV system and an additional 119 kWh delivered by the diesel generator. This setup demonstrates the lowest net present cost (NPC) of ₱ 1,079,642 and the lowest levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of ₱ 17.79/kWh. A future SPIS project was assessed to have 27 possible synergies and 3 tradeoffs that impact achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). The participation of stakeholders, along with local farmers, in discussions about adapting SPIS projects will help ensure the sustainability of the application and the acceptance of the technology. The findings of this study introduced new insights and understanding of the critical aspects of solar PV irrigation system applications.

This research was conducted to identify the practices employed by the SorSU Faculty members towards saving money as well as discover the problems encountered by them in handling their finances. A total of 40 faculty members of Sorsogon State University Bulan Campus participated in this study. The mixed designed was used in this research which employed survey and focus group discussions. This study concludes that the faculty members of SorSU Bulan Campus adopt both the traditional way of saving money and the modern style of investment as modes of saving their finances which include budgeting, joining in “paluwagan”, using piggy bank, maintaining bank accounts and deposits and purchasing investment instruments. Increasing cost of utilities and unexpected day-to-day expenses; lack of financial literacy; poor debt management; and low and delayed salaries were the problems encountered by the faculty participants in handling their monetary resources. From the results of the study, this highly recommends the adoption of the Bongalonta’s Financial Model for SorSU Bulan Campus Faculty Members designed by the researcher as a guide or model for saving money. It is likewise recommended that seminars and trainings on financial literacy may be conducted.