1

VIRTUAL DISCUSSION ATTENTION SPAN AND ITS FACTORS

A Research Presented to the Faculty of University of Cebu

Maritime Education and Training Center

Cebu City, Philippines

In Partial fulfillment of the Requirements

for the Subject Research 101

D/C Barbadillo, Harbie

D/C Bonocan, Dominic

D/C Estrada, Michel Cristian

D/C Lopez, Keith John

D/C Mata, Diosar Timothy

January 2021
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENT
Title Page 1
Approval Sheet 2
Table of Contents 3
List of Tables III

CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE
INTRODUCTION

Rationale 6-7
Theoretical Background 8-15
Problem 16-17
The Significance of Study 18

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design 19
Research Environment 20-21
Research Respondents 21
Research Instruments 22
Data Gathering 23-24
Definition of Terms 25

References 26-29
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Appendix-AI Transmittal letter to the Dean 30-31

Appendix-AII Transmittal letter to the Respondents 32
Appendix-AIII Transmittal letter to the Registrar 33-34
Informend Consent 35-40
Appendix -B Research Instrument 41-42
Appendix-D Location Map 43

CURRICULUM VITAE 44-54

LIST OF FIGURE
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Figure Description Page

1 Research Flow

APPROVAL SHEET
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This thesis entitled “Virtual Discussion Attention Span and Its

Factors”, prepared and submitted by D/C Harbie Barbadillo, D/C Dominic
Bonocan, D/C Michel Cristian Estrada, D/C Keith John Lopez, and D/C
Diosar Timothy Mata. Of Bachelor of Science in Maritime Transportation of
University of Cebu – Maritime Education and Training Center will be
examined, accepted, and approved.

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

Chairman

Member Member

MICHELLE M. PABLE, DEV.ED. D.

Adviser

ENGR. ORLAND V. FONTANOZA DR. ALVIN E. ZAMORA

Program Research Coordinator Program Research Coordinator
Marine Engineering General Education
UC - METC UC - METC

CAPT. ARNEL N. MALAGA

Campus Director/Maritime Superintendent

CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE
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INTRODUCTION
Rationale

Virtual discussion has been new to everyone. Some students have not

yet adjusted to it since it really different from what the students are used to.

Officials think of better ways in order to deliver quality education even in

period of struggle in mode of delivery. In Philippines, the shifting to online

learning as new mode of learning delivery is a challenge considering that the

internet connection isn't always stable in most parts of the countries.

For University of Cebu (METC), the students are adapting the online

learning. The Maritime educators are being trained to provide the quality

learning through the online platforms. Synchronous and asynchronous in

online learning becomes a trend. In imparting the knowledge to students, the

new challenge in educators is how to keep the students motivated throughout

the lesson in consideration of the distant learning. During the face-to-face

learning instructions, attention span of students can be easily controlled by

instructors. Yet, due to the new normal, in the online learning, instructors

can't easily control the attention span of students due to some factors. With

the virtual discussions and lectures for every lesson delivery, this study tends

to determine change of attention span and its reasons towards virtual

learning.
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The present situation when it comes to the struggles that the students

had been encountered with the use of online based learning pursued the

researcher to conduct this study. Distractions during the online class affects

the behavior and attention span of the students. The researcher wants to

unlock the reasons of change of attention span.

Virtual discussion or online classes are way different from what the

students are used to. It really feels easy to sneak from class. Now, they can

easily decide if they want to participate or not in class, If they want or don’t

to the activities since the students are just inside their homes. Students can

be easily distracted. Students that are supposed to be attending their classes

are active on their social media. The instructor cannot know if the student is

still paying attention or not. They might still be active in the meeting but

what the instructor doesn’t know is that the students are already sharing

memes on Facebook or ranting on twitter.  The situation that we are right

now lead the conduction of this study.

Theoretical background
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Factors such as distractions, student interest and understanding, and

learning preferences contribute to the attention span of online learners ,and

this is the assumption of this study. This research is anchored on Sam

McLeod’s theory of selective attention, a mainstay of cognitive psychology.

This theory is based on the idea that “selective attention is the process of

directing our awareness to relevant stimuli while ignoring irrelevant stimuli

in the environment. This is an important process as there is a limit to how

much information can be processed at a given time, and selective attention

allows us to tune out insignificant details and focus on what is important.

This theory is supported by Gerschler’s theory (2012) which states

that distractions, student interest and understanding, and learning

preferences are the three classifications on the factors maintaining student

focus.

Dontre (2020) The detrimental effects of academic distraction have

become increasingly problematic in recent years due to student media

multitasking.

Interest has been valued as a key component of academic

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achievement for more than a century. Interest is also considered by many

social cognitive psychologists to be an important component of motivation

in a online classroom, interest can also hold a student's attention, encourage

effort, and support learning. It also has been found to enhance strategic

processing (Ryan and Deci, 2000)

Smitth (2019) Learning preferences refer to how much a learner

prefers certain educational modalities over others, such as watching a video

online vs. in-person instruction. They differ from learning styles, because

they don’t hinge on a learner needing all training to be visual, or all

kinesthetic to learn best.

Dufault (2013) stated that the classes in most universities took 50-90
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minutes long which is considerably longer than the attention span of an

archetypal student. The attention of students widely differs from others and

their attention quality requires on their emotion, the time of day and several

other factors. It is believed that the attention span of students ends at the

headmost 10-15 minutes of every lecture. But no corroboration was found to

uphold the belief.

Childhood development experts generally say that a reasonable

attention span to expect of a child is two to three minutes per year of their

age. That's the period of time for which a typical child can maintain focus

on a given task. Average attention spans work out like this: 8 years old:

16 to 24 minutes, 10 years old: 20 to 30 minutes, 16 years old: 32 to 48

minutes

Bailey (2011) Showed in his study that about a third of academic

leaders perceive online outcomes to be inferior to traditional classes and that

faculty members have misgivings about online classes. These misgivings

include lack of course comparability, more opportunities to cheat in online

classes, and a greater attraction to students whose goal is to cheat.

On the other hand, Reyes (2020) said that in an online setting, teachers

could not be sure if students are paying attention to the lesson.

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Furthermore, Bulle (2019) stated the impact of a shorter attention span

and lower level of concentration hits harder on online classes, as Kent

University found out through a study. Researchers argue that students that

take online courses are more vulnerable through distractions since they are

freer to multitask.

On the other hand, students who took courses in a classroom, with a

teacher present, had better performance. The study of Arooj, Javed, Mukhtar,

and Sethi (2020). The students also reported limited attention span and

resource intensive nature of online learning as a limitation. The students also

stated that their attention span during online learning was even shorter Than

Face to face sessions.

In addition to Cherrett, Wills, Price, Maynard, & Dror, (2009); Dror,

Schmidt, & O'connor, (2011); Kim et al., 2014) Stated that one of the

disadvantages of online video lectures is that it is hard for learners to

passively watch them. Adding interactivity increases the effectiveness of the

lectures and expands the attention span of online learnersThe world has

shifted all events, chores, and activities online. The online shift also includes

learning and overall education. Part of this has to be attributed to

coronavirus, and part of it is attributed to the ease that internet learning

brings to life.The biggest worry that parents and teachers have is regarding
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the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to the internet and other devices.

The risk is extensive due to the internet as the chances of. Reduction in

attention span are higher. With online teaching, keeping the attention span of

students throughout the lecture can be a challenge.

(Kotecha, 2020) . Include real-life stories of real achievers,

successful people, or even your own personal encounter. This will make

students more attentive to online lectures. Bettinger & Fox, (2020) stated

that online courses for college students are rapidly expanding, especially at

private for-profit institutions, little extant research identifies the effects of

online courses on students’ academic success. A study conducted to students

at DeVry University- where two-thirds of classes are conducted online. The

study finds that on average. Students perform worse in online class,

compared to how they would have performed in a traditional in-person class

setting effective only if students have consistent access to the internet and

computers and if teachers have received targeted training and supports for

online instruction. Because these needed requirements for effectiveness have

been largely absent for many, remote education during the pandemic has

impeded teaching and learning. reduced attention span has likely impeded

student learning and also affected the development of the whole child.

Scagnoli (2019) stated that video lectures (VL), considered an effective

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means for delivering course content and infusing teaching presence in the

virtual environment, have become very popular in education. The findings

show that students' satisfaction with VL has a strong relationship with

positive overall learning experience and perception of impact of video on

learning. Furthermore, vl can enhance a feeling of engagement with content

because of learner’s control of the media and instructors presence.

On the other hand. Bolliger, (2003)  students

who chose to learn online have mentioned convenience and flexibility as one

of the major advantages of online learning. Also, Pappas (2018) Said in his

study that video demos give online learners a visual example to follow. Best

of all, they’re quick and convenient for online learners who are easily

distracted.

On the other hand Gutierrez ( 2017)  invite someone to actively

participate in learning. Asking a question encourages people to think and

reflect about what they're learning.

A major technical issue which can dampen the motivation to take

advantage of eLearning is the Slow and unreliable internet connectivity in

the Philippines. Salac A., Kim S., (2016).

Meanwhile, Sivakumar (2017) said that study reveal that attention span
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and lack of concentration are one of the common problems faced by the

school students.

Researchers argue that students that take online courses are free to

multitask. Another aspect that should be considered is procrastination (Geri,

Winer, & Zaks, 2017)

Fallon (2011) stated that participating in synchronous virtual

classroom activities can also be challenging for some students if they lack

knowledge of the virtual classroom’s functions. Most students were not

relaxed but challenged while participating in this virtual classroom activity,

perhaps because of its unfamiliarity. Having little experience of using the

virtual classroom, students lacked knowledge to use it to its full potential.

Vonderwell and Zachariah (2014) stated that an effective online learning

requires interdependence for a shared understanding of learning goals in a

learning community. Monitoring student participation and patterns of

participation closely can help instructors identify student needs and scaffold

learning accordingly.
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On the other hand, Bradbury (2016) stated that the most consistent

finding from a literature review is that the greatest variability in students

attention arises from differences between teachers and not from the teaching

format itself.

Alkhasawneh, Mrayyan, Docherty (2008) stated that most students

are able to learn effectively as long as the instructor provides different

learning activities in the areas assessed in VARK

In a study conducted by Kirtman (2009), a student responded to

online coursework by stating, that online classroom is more self-guided so a

student can spend more time on the concepts that needs more help with and

less on concepts that a student can pick up quickly. Self regulated learners

have a tendency to use various “cognitive and metacognitive strategies to

accomplish their learning goal”

Hahn (2012) stated that video lectures are relatively easy to create, and can

be used to enhance online information literacy classes. Students can view the

video lectures at their convenience.

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THE PROBLEM

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the correlation between the level

of attention span and the factors affecting the attention span in virtual

discussion of the the second year maritime students at University of Cebu

Maritime Education and Training Center, Mambaling, Cebu City for the

academic year 2020-2021 as basis for sound recommendations.

Specifically, the study seeks to answer the following questions.

1.) What is the level of attention span of the respondents on virtual

discussion?

2. What is the level of factors affecting attention span in virtual discussion to

respondents in terms of:

2.1 distractions;
2.2 Student interest and understanding and
2.3 learning preferences?

3. Is there a significant relationship between the the level of attention span

and the level of factors affecting attention span in virtual discussion?
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4. What sound recommendation can be proposed after knowing the findings

of the study?

Statement of the Null Hypothesis

Ho: There is no significant relationship between the the level of attention

span and the level of factors affecting attention span in virtual discussion.
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Significance of the study

This study will bring benefits to the following people.

Students. The result of this study will help the students in

understanding the reasons of change in attention span in virtual discussion

Instructors. The conclusion of the study would help the instructors

by providing them with essential ideas and methods on how they can handle

and prolong the student’s attention span during new normal learning which

is virtual discussion.

Parents. The result of the study will help the parents understand the

effect of virtual discussion to the attention span of their child.

Administrators- They will be benefited because they are certified

professionals employed by the school to assist and advise students about

academic problems and to make appropriate adjustments to their

environment.

Future Researchers.  The future researchers of this study would

benefit our study by providing them information about our study.

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RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study will use Descriptive correlational survey research design .

Figure one below shows the flow of the study.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

 level of attention  Internet

span in virtual  Sound
researches Recommendati
discussion ons
 Transmittal letter
 Level of factors
 Data -gathering
affecting attention
 Treatment of data
span
 Data analysis
 Significant

relationship

between level of

attention span and

level of factors

affecting attention

span in virtual

discussion
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Research Environment

The researchers will conduct the study at the University of Cebu-

Maritime Education and Training Center (UC-METC). The UC-METC is a

University of Cebu campus that specialize in training and educating world-

class seafarers. It offers future seafarers’ thorough teaching and training

complete with technological simulators while accredited with and abiding by

international standards set by the DNV-ISO, Panama Maritime Authority and

the Norwegian Liberian Maritime Authority.

It is located near the sea with an 8-hectare area allocated for the

learning and advancement of its students and stakeholders. The exact

address is Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City, Philippines. The school setting

is essential to the researchers since the respondents of the proposed study are

already in the vicinity that also provides the convenience to conduct the

research.

In addition to that, this environment is the training ground for future

mariners that will be serving international vessels under international

companies. There is a great significance on why this environment is well

suited for the study since this is where students enhanced their skills and

knowledge to be used in the future when they are in the industry of

maritime. We chose to conduct our study in this university because we are

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studying in the said university. With that we are familiar with the vicinity

Research Respondents

The respondents of the study are the second-year BSMT and BsMare

students that are currently enrolled in this semester 2020 – 2021. The

researchers estimated that possibly there are 757 enrolled 2nd year BSMT

students and 309 BsMare students that has a sum of 1068 as total population

of students enrolled. The researchers have a sample size of 214 using 20%.

Research Instrument
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The researchers will use a researcher-made questionnaire using the checklist

method in gathering the data. The survey form questionnaire contains the

statements that define the factors that affect attention span and its effects on

virtual learning. The questionnaire consist of two parts, no. 1 which has 1

question and is to be answered by assessing how often does a student spends

time attending a virtual discussion. In No. 2, it consists of 3 categories that

will determine which of the following factors affect the attention span of the

student. Part A Category Distractions consist of 5 factors, part B Category

Student interest and understanding consist of 2 factors, and part C Category

Learning Preferences also consist of 2 factors. The factors are to be

answered by rating 1-4, 4 as the highest and 1 as the lowest. There will be

pilot testing before the large main test. This will demonstrate that the survey

will be successful in achieving the study’s objective. The collected data will

then be analyzed.

Research Procedure

Data Gathering
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  A letter of permission will be submitted to the registrar of the college

department of University of Cebu-Maritime Education and Training Center

for approval in gathering information. First thing is that the researcher will

distribute the questionnaire to the respondents (via online or google docs).

After we will collect the questionnaire with their answers on it and by that

we will start analyzing and will be tabulating after wards.

Treatment of Data. Since the study deals with the attention span in

virtual discussion and its factors, the following measurements will be

applicable.

1. Weighted Mean. This will be used in getting the level of attention

span and the level of factors affecting the attention span of the

respondents in virtual learning.

2. Chi-square. This is will used in getting the significant relationship

between the level of attention span and the level of factors

affecting attention span in virtual discussion.

Scoring Procedure. To get the range of the factors affecting attention

span in virtual discussion, the scoring indicated below will be utilized.

Scale Range Descriptiv Verbal Description

e
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Equivalent
4 3.26- Always The factor mentioned greatly affects the
4.00 attention span of the respondent in virtual
discussion.
3 2.51- Sometimes The factor mentioned affects the attention
3.25 span of the respondent in virtual discussion.
2 1.76- Seldom The factor mentioned rarely affects the
2.50 attention span of the respondent in virtual
discussion.
1 1.00- Never The factor mentioned does not affect the
1.75 attention span of the respondent in virtual
discussion.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following terms are defined operationally for better

understanding.
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Attention Span. This refers to the length of time during an individual or a

group is able to concentrate or remain interested.

Distractions. This refers to something that distracts: an object that directs

one's attention away from something else

Learning preferences. This refers on what the students prefer to maintain

attention span during virtual discussion.

Student interest and understanding. This refers to the students’ interest

and understanding that maintain his/her attention span during virtual

discussion

Virtual Discussion. This refers to a discussion made online where students

listen to the instructor with the use of monitor or android cellular phone.
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REFERENCES

Attention Span By Age. Retrieved on December 30, 2020 from:

https://blog.brainbalancecenters.com/

Alkhasawneh, Mrayyan, Docherty (2008) Problem-based Learning(PBL):

Assessing students’ learning preferences using VARK. Retrieved on
December 30, 2020: From https://www.sciencedirect.com

Arooj, Javed, Mukhtar, and Sethi (2020). Advantages, Limitations and

Recommendations for online learning during COVID-19 pandemic era.
Retrieved on November 28, 2020. From: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Bailey (2011) Academic Integrity: Online Classes Compared to Face-toFace

Classes. Retrieved on November 19, 2020. From:
https://www.semanticscholar.org

(Bettinger & Fox, 2020) Changing contributions: How online college

classes alter student and professor performance. Retrieved on November 28,
2020. From: the effects of online classes - Google Scholar

Bolliger, (2003) Impact of podcasting on student motivation in the online

learning environment. Retrieved on November 28, 2020. From
https://scholar.google.com’

, Bradbury (2016 Attention span during lectures: 8 seconds, 10 minutes, or

more? Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From:
https://journals.physiology.org/

Bulle (2019) The excess of content and the decreasing attention span in
 27

students. Retrieved on November 19, 2020. From: https://observatory.tec.mx

Cherrett, Wills, Price, Maynard, & Dror, (2009); Dror, Schmidt, & O'connor,
(2011); Kim et al., 2014). Making training more cognitively effective:
Making videos interactive. . Retrieved on October 13, 2020 from:
http://www.ijello.org

Dontre (2020) the Influence of Technology on Academic Distraction: A

Review. Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From: https://fuse.franklin.edu

Dufault (2013) Research Proposal: The Attention Span of Students During

Class. Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From: https://www.123helpme.com

Fallon (2011) Students' experiences of learning in a virtual classroom.

Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From: ERIC - Education Resources
Information Center

(Geri, Winer, & Zaks, 2017) Challenging the six-minute myth of online
video lectures: Can interactivity expand the attention span of learners?
Retrieved on December 3, 2020, from http://www.iiakm.org

Gerschler (2012) Classroom Strategies for Maintaining Student Focus.

Retrieved on December 30. 2020. From: https://www.researchgate.net

Gutierrez (2017) 10 Things That Learners Pay Attention To (And How to

Use Them in eLearning). Retrieved on December 3, 2020. From:
https://www.shiftelearning.com
 28

Hahn (2012). Video Lectures Help Enhance Online Information Literacy

Course. Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From: https://www.emerald.com

Kirtman (2009), Online versus in-class courses: An examination of

differences in learning outcomes. Retrieved fon December 30, 2020. From:
http://search.proquest.com

Kotecha, (2020). How to increase attention span of students in online

teaching. Retrieved on November 28, 2020. From: https://megaexams.com

Pappas (2018) How to use short attention span to your advantage in

eLearning. Retrieved on November 28, 2020. From:
https://www.growthengineering.co.uk/

Reyes (2020). Experts see even shorter attention span for children under
online learning. Retrieved on November 19, 2020. From:
https://www.gmanetwork.com

(Ryan and Deci, 2000) Effort and Interest. Retrieved on December 30, 2020.
From: https://education.stateuniversity.com

Salac(2016)A Study on The Internet Connectivity in The Philippines.

Retrieved on December 3, 2020. From: https://www.researchgate.net

Scagnoli, (2019).Students' insights on the use of video lectures in online

classes. Retrieved on November 28, 2020. From:
https://berajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com

Smitth (2019) What You Need to Know About Learning Preferences.

Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From: https://www.bizlibrary.com
 29

sivakumar (2017) Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Therapy upon attention

Span and Concentration among Secondary School Students. Retrieved on
December 3, 2020. From: http://repository-tnmgrmu.ac.in

Vonderwell and Zachariah (2014) Factors that influence Participation in

Online Learning. Retrieved on December 30, 2020. From:
https://www.tandfonline.com

APPENDIX A-1
Transmittal Letter- Letter to the Dean

November 2020
Capt. Gerry Enajmbre
Dean, College of Maritime Education
University of Cebu METC
Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City

  THRU: Engr. Allan Navarro 

  General Education Chairperson 
General Education Department 

Dear Capt. Enjambre

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Greetings!
My co-researchers and I are currently enrolled in Research 101 in University
of Cebu Maritime Education and Training Center and we are in the process
of making our research entitled “Attention Span in Virtual Discussion and its
Reasons” as requirement in Research 101.

We are hoping for your full support regarding this matter. Thank you! 
 
Respectfully yours,  
 
D/C Michel Cristian R. Estrada
Lead Researcher 
 
Noted by:  
 
Michelle M. Pable
Research Adviser
Recommending Approval: 
 
Capt. Gerry D. Enjambre Engr. Allan Navarro 
Dean of Maritime Education            Gen. Ed Chairperson 

 
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Appendix A-2
Letter to the Respondents

November 2020
University of Cebu
Maritime Education and Training Center
Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City 6000

Dear Respondents:
Good Day! 
                    As a 2nd year students of University of Cebu ( Maritime
Education and Training Center )  who is currently enrolled in Research  101.
 32

We conducted a study entitled “Attention Span In Virtual Discussion and its

Reasons”, together with my teammates as prerequisite of the subject. We
respectfully and humbly ask for a moment of time and for your cooperation
to let us conduct our study to know the  effects of virtual discussion to the
attention span as a maritime students and to have a better solution for this
problem. 

Sincerely yours,
D/C Michel Cristian R. Estrada
Research Group Leader

Noted by:
Michelle M. Pable
Research 101 Adviser

APPENDIX A-3
Transmittal Letter- Letter to the Registrar

November 08, 2020 

Jovita A. Quinanola 
Registrar Head 
University of Cebu – METC  
Alumnos, Mambaling Cebu City 
  
  THRU: Engr. Allan Navarro 
  General Education Chairperson 
General Education Department 
  
Ma’am Jovita: 
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I am Michel Cristian R. Estrada a 2nd year Bachelor of Science in Marine

Transportation student a representative of the group would like to ask for the
total number of 1st-year to 3rd-year BSMT students enrolled in the
University of Cebu-METC for this first semester of academic year 2020-
2021. The research is entitled “Attention Span In Virtual Discussion and
Its Reasons”. The purpose of this request is for our process to know the
total enrolled students to get the sample size for our research respondents. 
 
We are hoping for your full support regarding this matter. Thank you! 
 
Respectfully yours,  
 
D/C Michel Cristian R. Estrada
Lead Researcher 
 
Noted by:  
 
Michelle M. Pable
Research Adviser
Recommending Approval: 
 
Capt. Gerry D. Enjambre Engr. Allan Navarro 
Dean of Maritime Education            Gen. Ed Chairperson 

 
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INFORMED CONSENT
Students and Faculty Researchers
University of Cebu System

Name of Principal Investigator: Estrada, Michel

Cristian R.
Name of Organization: University of Cebu - Maritime Education and
Training Center (UC-METC)
Title of Proposal: Effects of Virtual Discussion to the Attention Span of
Maritime Students

This Informed Consent Form has two parts:

□ Informed Sheet (to share information about the research with you)
□ Certificate of Consent (for signatures if you agree to take part)
 35

You will be given a copy of the full Informed Consent Form

PART I: Information Sheet

Introduction
I am a student of the University of Cebu taking up Bachelor of Science in
Marine Transportation.currently conducting a study entitled: “Attention
Span In Virtual Discussion and Its Reasons”.
In line with this, I am inviting you to be a respondent of this
investigation and request you to spare few minutes of your time to answer
this questionnaire honestly. However, you do not have to decide today
whether or not you will participate in the research. Before you decide, you
can talk to anyone you feel comfortable with about the research. If there are
contents in the questionnaire that you do not understand and find ambiguous
then feel free to contact the researchers. Rest assured that all the answers
will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Purpose of the Research

This study tends to determine change of attention span and its reasons
towards virtual learning. The present situation when it comes to the struggles
that the students had been encountered with the use of online based learning
pursued the researcher to conduct this study. Distractions during the online
class affects the behavior and attention span of the students.

Type of Research Intervention

This research will involve survey questionnaire that are researcher-made

Participant selection
We are inviting the all levels of maritime students, both from Bachelor of
Science in Marine Transportation and Marine Engineering, who currently
enrolled this academic year 2020-2021.
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Voluntary Participation
Your participation in this research is entirely voluntary. It is your choice
whether to participate or not. Whether you choose to participate or not, it
does not affect you as a student. You may change your mind later and stop
participating even if you agreed earlier and this will not be taken against you
later on.

Procedures and Protocol

In this investigation you will be asked to answer a questionnaire that will
be distributed by the researchers during your free time. It will be collected
right after you completely answer the questionnaire. The questionnaire can
be read aloud and you can give the answer on those items in that you intend
to answer. You do not wish to answer some of the questions included in the
questionnaire, you may skip them and move on to the next question. The
information recorded is confidential.

Duration
The research takes place within 12 months. During that time, you will be
asked by the researchers/proponents to answer the questionnaire during your
convenient time and may submit within 1 to 3 days. If you would answer the
questionnaire immediately, then it will take around 10 minutes to finish.
Your engagement as a respondent will only take once.

Risks
I am asking you to share or divulge your personal information which you
may feel uncomfortable answering with. There are also questions which
might affect your exhibition of those values, and you may feel
uncomfortable talking to other topics. You must know that it is you who will
decide whether to give answer to all questions or you may skip on some
questions. You do not have to give reasons for not responding to any
questions, or for refusing to take part in the survey.

Benefits
 37

There will be no immediate benefits to you, but this will help enhance
the educational method that the teachers use through the administration. The
administration will be the one to provide and make changes to the system.

Reimbursements
You will not be provided with any payment for taking part in the
research.

Confidentiality
Because something out of ordinary is being done through research in the
educational institution that you are connected with, it might draw attention.
If you participate, other people in the organization and the society in general
may ask questions.

I will not be sharing information about you. The information that I

collect from this research project will be kept confidential. Information about
you and your perception that will be collected from this research will be put
away and no one but the researcher will be able to see it. Any information
about you will have a number on it instead of your name. Only the
researcher will know your number/contact information and I will lock that
information up with a lock and key. It will not be shared with or given to
anyone except my research adviser, Ms. Michelle M. Pable.

Right to Refuse or Withdraw

You may choose not to participate in this study and does not have to take
 38

part in this research if you do not wish to do so. Choosing to participate or

not will not affect you as a student. You will still benefit from the
implications to practice and other recommendations. You may stop from
participating in the survey at any time that you wish without losing your
right here.

Who to Contact
If you have any questions, you can ask them now or later, even if the
study has started. If you wish to ask questions later, you may contact any of
the following:

Name of the Researcher/Adviser/Ethics Staff Phone number

Michel Cristian R. Estrada [email protected]
Michelle M. Pable [email protected]

This thesis proposal has been reviewed and approved by my thesis panel of
reviewers at the University of Cebu Research Ethics Committee, which is a
committee whose task is to make sure that researcher have properly
conducted the study. If you have any questions for my panel, please contact
the University Research Office.

PART II: Certificate of Consent

I have read the foregoing information, or it has been read to me. I have
had the opportunity to ask questions about it and any questions that I
have asked have been answered to my satisfaction. I consent voluntarily
to participate as a participant in this research.

Print name of Participant: ___________________

Signature of Participant: ____________________
Date: ________________
Day/month/year
If illiterate
A literate witness must sign (if possible, this person should be selected
by the participant and should have no connection to the research team).
 39

Participants who are illiterate should include their thumbprint as well.

I have witnessed the accurate reading of the consent form to the

potential participant, and the individual has had to ask questions. I
confirm that the individual has given consent freely.
Print name of witness ___________________ AND Thumbprint of
participant
Signature of witness ____________________
Date _________________
Day/month/year

Statement by the researcher/person taking consent

I have accurately read out the information sheet to the potential participants,
and to the best of my ability made sure that the participants understands that
the following will be done:
1.
2.
3.

I confirm that the participant was given and opportunity to ask question
about the study, and all the questions asked by the participant have been
answered correctly and to the best of my ability. I confirm that the individual
has not been coerced into giving consent, and the consent has been given
freely and voluntarily.

A copy of this ICF has been provided to the participant.

Print Name of Researcher/person taking the

consent________________________

Signature of Researcher/person taking the

consent__________________________
 40

Date__________________
Day/month/year

APPENDIX B-1

*Researcher-made Questionnaire*

1. How many minutes do you usually spend in attending to virtual

discussion?

a. 10- 15 mins. __________

b. 16-31 mins. ___________

c. 32- 48 mins.___________

d. Others : (pls. Specify) __________

2.

Factor Affecting Attention Span 4 3 2 1

 41

A. Distractions        

1. My internet connection is slow.

       
2. My environment is noisy.        
3. I tend to multi task.        
4.) I lack concentration        
5.) I tend to delay my tasks
( procrastinate)        

B.Student interest and understanding 4 3 2 1

1.)My instructor provides real-life

stories of real successful people
       
2.)My instructor shares her/his personal
experience        
3.)I feel relaxed during synchronous
virtual class        
4.)I can enhanced my online
information literacy through video
lectured        
5.) I feel more confident on online
classroom        

C. Learning Preference 4 3 2 1
1.) My greatest vulnerability un terms
of attention arises from different
teachers.        
2.) My instructor asks question that
make me think and reflect my learning.        
 42

3.) I am provided with video

demonstrations        
4.)There is an interaction during classes        
5.) I am able to learn effectively        

APPENDIX D
LOCATION MAP
43
 44

CURRICULUM VITAE

MICHEL CRISTIAN R. ESTRADA

Miami Homes San Isidro
Talisay City, Cebu, Philippines
09167321879
[email protected]

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name : Michel Cristian R. Estrada

Age : 20
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Birthplace : Cebu City
Birthdate : November12,2000
Parents : Rosario R. Estrada
Michel L. Estrada

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND
 45

Elementary : Monterey School Inc.

San Isidro Talisay City

S. Y. 2007-2013

Junior high school : University of San Carlos –SouthCampus

J. Alcantara St. Cebu, City

S.Y. 2013-2017

Senior high school : University of Cebu-Metc Campus

Alumnos, Mambaling Cebu City

S.Y. 2017-2019

College : University of Cebu – Maritime Education

and Training Center

Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City

S.Y. 2020 - PRESENT

KEITH JOHN G. LOPEZ

Brgy. Pooc Occidental

 46

Tubigon, Bohol, Philippines

09683965710
[email protected]

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name : Keith John G. Lopez

Age : 20
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Birthplace : Tubigon, Bohol
Birthdate : July 26, 2000
Parents : Loreto V. Lopez
Aida G. Lopez

  ACADEMIC BACKGROUND
 47

Elementary : Tubigon, Individualize Christian

Foundation School

Cahayag, Tubigon, Bohol

S.Y. 2007-2012

Junior high school : Holy Family of Nazareth School

Ubojan, Tubigon, Bohol

S. Y. 2012-2017

Senior high school : University of Cebu-Metc Campus

Alumnos, Mambaling Cebu City

S.Y. 2017-2019

College : University of Cebu – Maritime Education

and Training Center

Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City

S.Y. 2020 - PRESENT

DOMINIC M. BONOCAN
 48

Bitoon, Daanbantayan Cebu, Philippines

09156432653
[email protected]

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name : Dominic M. Bonocan

Age : 20
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Birthplace : Bitoon, Daanbantayan, Cebu
Birthdate : August 20, 2000
Parents : Domingo L.Bonocan
Purita M. Bonocan

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND
 49

Elementary : Bitoon, Elementary School

Bitoon, Daanbantayan, Cebu

S.Y. 2007- 2013

Junior high school : Daanbantayan National High School

Osmeña St. Poblacion, Daanbantayan

Cebu

S.Y. 2013-2017

Senior high school :Daanbantayan National High School

Osmeña St. Poblacion, Daanbantayan

Cebu

S.Y. 2017-2019

College : University of Cebu – Maritime Education

and Training Center

Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City

S.Y. 2020 – PRESENT

 50

DIOSAR TIMOTHY A. MATA

 51

Poblacion, Dimasalang Masbate

09772147121
[email protected]

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name : Diosar Timothy A. Mata

Age : 20
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Birthplace : Masbate City
Birthdate : January 7, 2001
Parents : Arceli A. Mata
Dioscoro O. Mata Jr.

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND
 52

Elementary : Dimasalang Central School

Poblacion, Dimasalang, Masbate

S.Y. 2007-2012

Junior high school : Dimasalang National High School

Poblacion, Dimasalang, Masbate

S. Y. 2012-2017

Senior high school : Ubay National Science High School

Fatima, Ubay, Bohol

S.Y. 2017-2019

College : University of Cebu – Maritime Education

and Training Center

Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City

S.Y. 2020 - PRESENT

HARBIE A. BARBADILLO
Tulay pob. 3, Carcar City, Cebu
09666147099
 53

[email protected]

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name : Harbie A. Barbadillo

Age : 20
Sex : Male
Civil Status : Single
Birthplace : Dalaguete, Cebu
Birthdate : November 25, 2000
Parents : Emelie Barbadillo
Fulton Barbadillo

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

Elementary : Carcar Christian School

 54

Santa Catalina street, poblacion

2, Carcar City

S.Y. 2007-2012

Junior high school : St. Catherine’s College

Poblacion 1

S. Y. 2012-2017

Senior high school : University of Cebu-Metc Campus

Alumnos, Mambaling Cebu City

S.Y. 2017-2019

College : University of Cebu – Maritime Education

and Training Center

Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City

S.Y. 2020 - PRESENT