1 5 Melani
1 5 Melani
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
grasp of both natural and social sciences. Unfortunately, there's a hesitancy among
millennials to pursue these courses due to concerns about being confined to farm work
(Bianchini, 2020).
The introduction of TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) for Agricultural
curriculum significantly. While this expansion entails more administrative work for
instructors—such as developing varied lesson plans, worksheets, and tests—it allows for
classes, minimizing the need for extensive material review. The diversity of topics
covered in these courses provides students pursuing agricultural careers with a structured
path for their studies, especially when guided by effective teachers, counselors,
administrators, and mentors. This structured approach also aids in the transition to higher
Surveys conducted among current college students aimed to gauge the success of
course sequencing in preparing students for higher education in agriculture. This research
significance and utility of this approach. Additionally, insights from student responses
were anticipated to reveal whether they perceived course sequencing as crucial for their
The outcome of this study may give more information about the live experiences of
The purpose of the study was to determine the lived experiences of the students
taking up agriculture program specifically the third year and fourth year college.
Research Question
Theoretical Lens
constructivism emphasizes that learners actively build their knowledge and understanding
based on their unique backgrounds and experiences. According to Brown (2015), this
learning motivation.
Adopting this viewpoint enabled me to delve into and organize the underlying
meanings and themes within the data collected, drawing from the diverse and individual
courses perceive and interpret their individual experiences. The environment surrounding
on how to frame a framework centered on how each learner adapts and reflects on their
learning process, constructs knowledge based on their lived experiences, and shapes their
future career choices. This approach facilitated a clearer understanding of how authentic
Students. The result of this study can be useful to students so that they know the
Parents. This study may inform the parents about the lived experiences of their
Future researcher. Similarly, the data and information of this study may be used as
a baseline for future studies and research. Additionally, this study could be a reference for
those researchers who are also involved in this study, thus, researcher may give some of
This qualitative study was limited only to the ten (10) agriculture students who are
To further understand the study, the following terms were defined operationally.
Agrikultura. The care and raising of animals and crops to produce food, fiber, fuel,
fiber and other products to be used to maintain and make people’s lives more
comfortable.
given person, and the knowledge that they gain from these experiences and choices.
school or college
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CHAPTER 2
Over the last three decades, enrollment patterns and the backgrounds of students
2016).
declines in the 1970s and 80s but saw slight increases in the 1990s, as noted by Dyer.
(2015). This has sparked discussions among faculty members in agricultural colleges
about adapting teaching methods and curriculum to address these evolving challenges.
college agriculture students. Understanding these factors can assist faculty in devising
2017). Surprisingly, variables like student gender and learning style have demonstrated
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(Casavant, 2018).
The influence of prior experiences in related fields has shown varying degrees of
impact on academic performance and retention. For instance, Cole & Fanno (2015) found
that students with backgrounds in FFA and 4-H tended to persist in agricultural programs
at a slower rate compared to those with no such backgrounds. Similarly, Bridges &
Casavant (2018) observed that students exposed to economics courses in high school
Higher education faces the challenge of ensuring a diverse student population reaps
the benefits of a college education and prepares adequately for the workforce (Odom,
Shehane, Moore & McKim, 2015). Success for college students now extends beyond
earning a degree to mastering essential skills essential for success in demanding post-
graduation contexts, particularly critical thinking (Quinn, Burbach, Matkin & Flores,
2009). Ironically, critical thinking skills, including among agriculture college students,
agriculture and natural resources, educators and employers emphasize its development
(Scanlon et al., 2009). Critical thinking becomes crucial for students who will grapple
with ethical, political, and economic implications in their roles (Quinn, Hanks & Hunter,
increase student engagement and deeper learning within courses (Kuh, 2016). These
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assignments, internships, service learning, and journaling for self-reflection (Jones et al.,
2016).
journals and class discussions, enhance critical thinking among students (Burbach et al.,
2017). However, while some teaching and learning practices have shown benefits for
students from various backgrounds, more deliberate practices aligned with essential
learning outcomes need development (Kuh, 2016). Reflection emerges as a powerful tool
for documenting students' learning depth and critical thinking levels throughout a course.
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CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
This chapter describes the methods and procedures of securing and analysing the
data in the study. It includes the research design, locale of the study, role of the
researcher, research participants, research instruments, data collection, data analysis and
ethical consideration.
Research Design
The researcher looked into the lived experience of that student when they are taking
phenomenology, to dig deeper into and investigate the difficulties that lived experiences
that focuses on the study of personal life experience, challenges and difficulties in the
world.
Technology (CFCST) due to the presence of my chosen research participants who are the
place and the participants are known to which it was convenient for me to conduct the
study.
The responsibility of the researcher is to do all the significant steps and procedure
which are suitable and applicable to this study. In conducting this study, the participants
were identified and the specific place for the study. Communication letter was distributed
and data were gathered through face-to-face interview by observing the participants
The researcher was the translator, interpreter, listener and analyzer of the data
gathered. Data were further transcribed to assure that all transcripts were accurate and
properly coded. Assuring that all the data to be collected were all valid and genuine
(Strong, 2002).
Research Participants
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This study’s participants were the students who already enrolled in agriculture
courses. It involved ten (10) students from Cotabato Foundation College of Science and
Technology (CFCST).
Research Instrument
The study utilized individual interview using an interview questionnaire and cell
The researcher ensured the approval of the research committee before the conduct
of the study and all the necessary communication letters were forwarded to concern
offices/individuals.
Data Analysis
In analysing that data which primary qualitative was subjected to textual analysis.
Once the data were transcribed, it was then coded, analysed, interpreted and verified. The
process of transcribing the interviews can help the researcher to gain more understanding
of the theme from repeatedly listening to and reading the transcribed interviews. I ask
questions that talk about the lived experience of students taking up agriculture program.
The statements of the participants were evaluated based on the experiences they face
Trustworthiness
This study is anchored to the framework of (Lincoln, 2015) which include the
sustaining trust in the result of the study and to avoid biases and everything that is
gathered and presented data are personally gathered analysed ( Lincoln & Guba, 2015).
Ethical consideration
study, I was adhered to various agreements. Prior to the interview, I gave the participants
the opportunity to read the consent agreement, which explained the study main gaol.
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CHAPTER 4
programs. As depicted in their narratives, these students often come from families with
projects, and other miscellaneous fees, can strain their already tight budgets.
difficulties. Despite these challenges, the students exhibit remarkable resilience and
determination to overcome these financial hurdles and continue their education. The
burden of financial hardship underscores the need for accessible financial aid and support
professionals can focus on their studies without the constant worry of financial
limitations.
Lisod jud kaayo labi nag pag abot sa amoa nga mga pobre
kay roblema pa sa eskwelahan problema pa sa financial (It's
really challenging, especially when we come from a poor family
because we face school challenges and financial problems.")
RQISQIP2
the importance of creating financial support structures within educational institutions and
and work-study opportunities specific to agriculture can help students pursue their
education without excessive financial strain. Additionally, financial literacy programs can
empower students with the knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively,
agricultural programs. The financial burden encompasses various aspects, such as tuition
fees, living expenses, and costs associated with academic materials and fieldwork.
According to studies like "The Economic Cost of Brain Drain on the Philippines" by
Orbeta and Abrigo (2013), economic difficulties can deter students from lower-income
backgrounds from pursuing higher education. In the context of agricultural studies, these
financial challenges are particularly acute, given the specialized equipment, field trips,
and often rural locations of agricultural institutions. This financial strain impacts not only
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the students but also their families, as they strive to secure the necessary funds for their
education and hinder the overall academic experience, underscoring the need for
Students pursuing an agricultural program often find themselves grappling with the
relentless academic demands and the toll it takes on their physical and mental well-being.
The rigors of this field, including daily laboratory activities and the necessity to grasp
nature of agricultural studies requires students to invest considerable time and effort in
their coursework.
limits.
programs highlights the need for institutions and educators to be attentive to the well-
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and strategies that help students manage their workload effectively, cope with exhaustion,
and maintain their mental and physical health throughout their academic journey.
Balancing the demands of an agriculture program is crucial to ensure students can thrive
The challenges of academic demand and exhaustion are ever-present realities for
landscape filled with complex subjects, scientific terminology, and hands-on laboratory
work, all of which demand their utmost attention and effort. The exhaustive nature of
agricultural studies, with daily laboratory activities and the need to memorize extensive
scientific names of plants and animals, often leads to mental and physical fatigue.
Research indicates that academic pressure can have a substantial impact on students'
mental well-being, causing stress and burnout (Bianchini, 2020). Moreover, the physical
strain of working in gardens and farms further contributes to their exhaustion. However,
these challenges also signify the dedication and resilience of these students, as they
continue to pursue their educational goals despite the formidable hurdles they encounter.
pursuing agricultural programs. These students exemplify unwavering resolve in the face
physical exhaustion associated with agricultural studies do not deter them from their
aspirations. Their stories underscore the resilience that fuels their educational journey.
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They believe in the transformative power of education and are willing to endure adversity
a reminder that, with the right support and resources, students can triumph over adversity
and contribute significantly to their chosen fields, offering hope and inspiration to others
studies, these students exemplify unwavering resolve in the face of numerous challenges.
seated belief in the transformative power of education. Despite the odds, these students
are willing to endure adversity to achieve their dreams and contribute to the field of
agriculture.
Legend:
General -Most of the participants agree on the idea.
Typical -Some of the participants agree on the idea
Variant -Few of the participants agree on the idea
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CHAPTER 5
Summary
agricultural programs, particularly those in their third and fourth years of college. These
these challenges effectively, the study frames its research within a constructivist lens,
emphasizing that learners actively construct knowledge based on their unique experiences
and backgrounds. The research intends to shed light on how students adapt, reflect, and
construct knowledge from their experiences, ultimately informing their future career
choices.
The significance of this study lies in its potential to benefit students, parents, and
future researchers. Students can gain insight into the experiences of their peers in
agricultural programs, parents can better understand their children's challenges, and
future researchers can use this study as a reference. However, this qualitative research is
In analysing the data, the study utilizes textual analysis, transcription, coding,
interpretation, and verification to formulate themes. Four key themes emerge: financial
pursuing agricultural programs and offer valuable insights for educational institutions and
agricultural programs opens up several avenues for further study. First, future research
could delve deeper into the specific factors and coping mechanisms that enable students
Understanding the psychological and social support systems that contribute to their
resilience could provide valuable insights for educators and institutions seeking to better
academic disciplines could shed light on whether the challenges and determination levels
differ significantly. Such research could help identify whether agricultural students
possess unique attributes that make them particularly resilient or if their experiences are
fostering determination and resilience among all students, regardless of their field of
study.
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The theme of perseverance and determination among students facing the challenges
of agricultural programs holds significant implications for future researchers in the realm
of education and psychology. Firstly, it suggests a need for further exploration into the
factors that drive students to persist despite formidable obstacles. Investigating the
specific motivators, coping mechanisms, and support structures that enable students to
maintain their determination can provide valuable insights. This could aid in the
implications for educational policy and practice. It underscores the importance of creating
environments that foster resilience and determination in all educational settings, not just
agriculture programs. Future researchers could delve into the strategies and practices
support services across diverse academic disciplines, ultimately benefiting students from
Concluding Remark
programs has been an enlightening and impactful journey. Through the exploration of
their experiences, I've gained a profound appreciation for the resilience and determination
that drive these students in the face of financial hardships, rigorous academic demands,
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and physical exhaustion. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of education and
human tenacity.
education and the vital role it plays in shaping not only individual lives but also entire
communities and industries. The insights gathered from this research can guide
similar challenges. It is my hope that this study serves as a catalyst for positive change in
the realm of agricultural education and beyond, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and
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