The Strategies of Junior High School Agriculture

Students in Producing Quality Crops in

Tublay School of Home Industries

A Qualitative Research Study Presented to the Faculty

of Tublay School of Home Industries

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the

Subject Practical Research 1

Dagwasi, Ricky Jr. M.

Palista, Christian B.

Baliwen, Crowil D.

Amando, Cyrus C.

Bendozan, Gio D.

Agtas, Roden O.

Jose, Ezekel A.

Albis, Anrey A.

11-D

Jhenon D. Estigo

Research Adviser

February 2025
 Chapter 1

Introduction

Background of the Study

Many people, especially those who are trying to improve their health, such as people who have
illnesses, people who are overweight or underweight, and older adults, eat a lot of fruits and
vegetables. This is because fruits and vegetables are very important for our body and which is why
doctors as well as other health authorities consistently advise that consuming fruits and vegetables
is important for a healthy lifestyle. The study conducted by Dr. Whal et. al (2017) concluded that
they contain many good things in them, like vitamins and minerals etc., that help us stay healthy.
Not only they are used for consumption, they are also used as ingredients for medical products,
beauty products etc. These foods help our bodies work the way they should. For example, Berg et.
all (2017) stated that vegetables and fruits keep our immune system strong so we don’t get sick
easily. In addition, they can also help protect us from getting some serious illnesses later in life.
Fruits and vegetables also have fiber in them, which helps our bodies digest food properly and
makes us feel full after we eat. This can also help us maintain a healthy and beautiful skin.
Because of all these benefits, many people are choosing to eat more fruits and vegetables as they
understand that eating healthy foods is important for living a long and healthy life.

Since fruits and vegetables are given such importance, the young farmers of Tublay have a big
responsibility to grow quality crops. This includes them using fast, safe and effective farming
methods, meeting consumer demands for fresh and healthy products, while also protecting the
environment through sustainable farming practices.

As a farmer, maximizing crop yields and minimizing costs are likely two of your top priorities.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to achieving these goals, there are a few key strategies
you can implement to help increase your chances of success as stated by Eria (2023). She also
stated that a well-thought-out crop management plan can help you optimize your farming
operations and increase your yields. It should include information about the crops you plan to
grow, the soil and weather conditions, and your irrigation and fertilization methods.

Experienced farmers use variety of strategies to produce high-quality crops. These strategies
focus on improving soil health, optimizing water use, and ensuring the quality of seeds. To improve
soil health, farmers often rotate crops, which helps prevent the build-up of pests and diseases in
the soil. Additionally, adding compost and other organic matter will enrich the soil and improve its
ability
 1

to hold water. Efficient water management is crucial for healthy plant growth. Farmers use
techniques like drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots of plants, minimizing water
waste.They also implement drainage systems to prevent waterlogging, which can damage roots.

Furthermore, experienced farmers carefully select high-quality seeds that are adapted to the
local environment and resistant to common pests and diseases and treating these seeds with
fungicides or insecticides to protect them from infection. In addition to these practices, farmers
utilize modern technologies such as precision agriculture, which involves using technology like
sensors to monitor and manage crops more efficiently. They may also employ protected cultivation
methods, such as growing crops in greenhouses, to control the environment and protect plants
from harsh weather conditions. By implementing a combination of these strategies, farmers can
significantly enhance the quality and yield of their crops while minimizing their environmental
impact.

Problem of the Study

Farmers worldwide face the constant challenge of improving crop production to meet the
growing global demand for food. While traditional farming practices have been the foundation of
humanity in the past, these practices now often struggle to keep up with modern population’s
demands and are easily affected by unpredictable environmental conditions. Furthermore, Hepler
et. Al (2023) stated that with the increasing occurrence of climate change, together with difficulties
like soil degradation and pest resistance, adds another challenge to agricultural practices. Not
knowing what to do in encountering one would much likely lead to significant loss. Evangelist et.
Al (2016) pointed out that a farmer should be responsible in managing their garden as neglecting
them may lead to land quality loss, pest emergence and many more. This requires the exploration
and implementation of effective strategies that can enhance fast crop yields while also ensuring
the long-term sustainability of farming operations. The need to understand the diverse challenges
these young farmers face and knowing the most promising solutions for improving crop production
arises.

Producing crops is already a hassle and organic and quality ones are much more difficult to
produce. They need much more attention and care from the farmer. Despite advancements in
agricultural technology and research, the adoption of improved farming strategies is often uneven
and inconsistent. Many farmers, especially in under developed regions, lacks the access to
information, resources, or financial support necessary to implement modern techniques.
Furthermore, cultural practices, risk avoidance, and limited access to markets can also influence
farmers’ choices regarding crop production strategies. This difference in access and adoption
creates a gap between potential yields and actual output, hindering efforts to ensure food security

and improve the livelihoods of farmers. A deeper understanding of the factors influencing farmers’
choices is essential for closing this gap and promoting the spread of adoption of effective
strategies.

Therefore, this research investigated the various practices and strategies employed by the
young farmers in producing quality crops, focusing on the challenges they face and the factors
influencing their decision-making processes. Today, the consumers need safe and healthy food.
This research study have identified the most promising approaches for enhancing crop yields while
considering the economic, environmental, and social properties of agricultural practices. This
research study have known how farmers deal with the lack of materials and tools. By examining
both traditional and modern techniques, this research have provided valuable insights for farmers
and even the experts themselves, contributing to the development of more sustainable and
productive agricultural systems.

Purpose of the Study

As time also quickly passes by, many traditional techniques and methods are being forgotten
and some are adopting due to changes in the surroundings. The primary purpose of this research
study was to thoroughly investigate the strategies performed by Junior High School Agricultures in
the production of a quality crop. This involves understanding the range of techniques and practices
utilized, from traditional methods passed down through generations to modern and whether they
know how to take advantage of the new tools together with the advanced technology approaches.
The research have identified the specific strategies Junior High School Agricultures employ in
response to facing various challenges, such as pest infestations, soil fertility issues, water
shortage, and with the unpredictable climate . By examining these diverse approaches, the
research study have provided a conclusion to the current state of crop production practices in
Tublay School of Home Industries.

This research study examined the factors that influence the Junior High School Agriculture’s
decisions regarding which crop production strategies to implement. It explored the role of financial
considerations and others, such as input costs and market prices, with environmental factors,
including soil type, climate conditions, and pest pressures. Furthermore, the research investigated
the role of social and cultural influences, such as traditional farming practices, access to
information etc. By understanding these, the study have revealed the motivations and constraints
that shape these young farmers’ choices and eventually impact their crop yields.

Ultimately, the purpose of this research was to provide valuable insights that can inform the
development of more effective and sustainable agricultural practices. By identifying successful

strategies and understanding the factors that facilitate their adoption, the study contributed to
improved crop production, enhanced food security, and increased farmer livelihoods. The findings
have been relevant to researchers, and farmers themselves, providing a foundation for developing
targeted interventions and promoting the widespread adoption of best practices in crop production.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focused specifically on one secondary public school located on the municipal of
Tublay in the province of Benguet the crop production strategies employed by farmers within that
particular area. There are only two secondary schools in Tublay and we chose Tublay School of
Home Industries because this is where we currently study and is also near where we live. The
other secondary school in the municipality have not been included because including it takes a lot
of time, effort and financial support. It may likely also not be completed in the allotted time for this
research. This research concentrated from the pre-harvest and cultivation stages, focusing on the
activities from land preparation and planting to crop management and pest control. While post-
harvest processes, such as storage and marketing, are important aspects of the agriculture value
chain (AVC), they are included to the scope of this research study.

The primary limitation of this study arised from the respondents and it’s sample size. Knowing
the Senior High School student’s opinions and experiences were be important for this research
study. However, due to lack of time, we only focused on Junior High School Agricultures. There are
currently 70 Junior High School Agricultures in total and their respective Agriculture teachers have
also been included as they teach strategies and practices in producing crops to their students.
While efforts have been made to ensure a sample of Junior High School Agricultures within the
chosen school, the findings are not fully generalizable to other farming communities that requires
different agricultural practices. The study’s reliance on survey questionnaires to gather data may
introduce biases, as student’s responses have been influenced by factors such as recall
inaccuracies. Furthermore, the study’s focus on a specific area which limits the usage of the
findings to other areas.
 Finally, this research study concentrated on the effective strategies for producing high-quality
crops. It covered key areas such as garden management, including soil preparation, irrigation, and
pest control; crop management, seed selection, planting, fertilization, and harvesting; and financial
management. The study’s findings have been interpreted within the context of these limitations.
Further research will be done as they could expand upon different areas to provide a more
comprehensive understanding of the complex factors affecting crop production strategies. The

advancement of technologies and changing environmental conditions became a limitation, as the

findings were specific on context and time.

Significance of the study

The findings from this research study really helped students who are studying Agriculture and
other farmers in four important ways. First, this research study provided insights into effective crop
production strategies, potentially leading to improved yields and increased income. This
knowledge have been very helpful in their future jobs as farmers, helping them produce food in a
way that is good for the environment and is efficient. By understanding the farm challenges
commonly faced, these challenges turned into opportunities as these Agricultures learned and
adapted their own strategies to optimize their production.

Second, the research gave readers specific advice on how to improve their farming methods.
This included things like choosing the right types of plants to grow, using new and better farming
techniques, and using technology to help with farming. By turning the research findings into
practical advice, students learned how to use what they learn in class in real-life farming situations.
Furthermore, the study’s findings have informed the development of more sustainable agricultural
practices that minimize environmental impact and promote the long-term health of agricultural
environment.

Third, this research was a valuable guide for farmers who are just starting out. The research
findings were shared through things like workshops and online resources, making this important
information available to many farmers. By providing clear and easy-to-understand advice, this
research study helped new farmers make good decisions, overcome challenges, and be
successful in their farming businesses.

Finally, this research study have encouraged more people to become interested in Agriculture.
By showing how farming can be done in a modern and sustainable way, the research changed
people’s ideas about farming and attract more talented young people to this important field. Having
more skilled farmers is essential for feeding the world and making sure we have a healthy and
sustainable food system for the future.

Research Questions

This research study aimed to know the strategies of Junior High School Agriculture students in
producing quality crops in Tublay School of Home Industries. Specifically, This research study
have answered the following questions:

1. What are the strategies in producing quality crops?

2. What problems do you face and their solutions?

3. What pieces of advice can you give to beginners?

 6

Chapter ll

RRL

Literature Review

Agriculture has been the foundation of human civilization for hundreds of years, advancing
from the simplest practices to a more advances farming techniques. Throughout the history,
farmers have continually adapted their strategies to improve crop production, facing challenges
such as varying climates, pest emergence, and soil conditions. Traditional farming methods and
techniques are often passed down through generation to generations. These farming methods
have become a foundation for food production, relying on techniques like crop rotation, natural
fertilizers, manual labour and technologies. Although many farming methods and techniques are
effective to a certain extent. Different farming challenges like climate change, population growth
etc. increase the need for more sustainable agricultural practices.

In recent decades, advancements in agricultural science and technology have introduced new
tools and techniques for farmers. Improved crop varieties, precise farming technologies, and
integrated pest management systems (IPM) have offered the potential to increase crops yields and
reduce environmental impact. However, with the adoption of these modern strategies, various
factors influencing farmers’ choices arises. Financial limitations of farmers, their access to
information, and cultural preferences can all play a role in determining which strategies are
implemented. Understanding these factors ar important for promoting the adoption of best
practices while ensuring food security.

In Russia, Oskana et.al (2020) conducted a study on the effective management of crop
production in modern conditions in the area. Crop production largely determines the welfare of the
country’s population. A characteristic feature of plant growing is seasonality, depending on weather
and natural-climatic conditions. The main tools and means of labour in crop production are the
land and the plant as concluded by Vasin (2018). In the late 1900s to early 2000s, the size of the
planting area has significantly decreased – by 24.4%. In addition to the reduction in cultivated
areas, the productivity yield per unit area fell, which increased the overall decline in the most types
of crop.

In the study of Oskana et. Al (2020), since the mid 2000s, in addition to restoring the size of
cultivated areas, with the introduction of advanced technologies in the growing process, crop yields
also increased significantly. For many types of crop production (wheat, sunflower, corn, soybeans,
rapeseed, rice), gross fees significantly exceeded the indicators of the early 1990s.Modern

agricultural technologies have made it possible for farmers to utilize a vast land, modern
machinery, and improved inputs to bring under cultivation even bigger farms, thus further
increases in productivity can be realized through better varieties, efficient water utilization, and the
investment of capital in addition to the availability of fossil fuel energy and other agricultural related
chemicals. Therefore, the increase in gross yield of wheat and most other crops, is provided at the
expense of growth of productivity together with the advance technologies.

With the advancement of Agricultural technologies, Hydroponics and Aeroponics became

easier. Sasirika et.al (2024) defined these techniques as a soilless cultivation system, gaining
interest as it reduces the dependency on agricultural land, and pesticides, and can be
implemented in areas with poor soil quality, and removing the negative effects of extreme weather
events.

Therefore, this research intended to investigate the diverse strategies performed by the young
farmers in producing quality crops with the existence of technologies. It explored both traditional
and modern approaches, examining their effectiveness and the factors influencing their adoption.
By understanding the properties of various crop production strategies, their advantages and
disadvantages, this research study contributed to the development of more sustainable and
efficient agricultural practices, eventually supporting farmers in their efforts to meet the growing
global demand for food and others.

Conceptual Framework

Figure 1 explains the conceptual framework of the study. This research utilized the input-
process-output. According to McGrath (1964), “input-process-output” (IPO) refers to a framework
where “inputs” are the initial conditions or resources available to a team, “processes” are the
interactions and actions taken by team members during their work, and “outputs” are the final
results or outcomes produced by the team, essentially describing how a team’s composition and
interactions lead to specific results; this model is widely used in understanding team effectiveness.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

A.) Understandi
ng the level
of farming
A.) Data
knowledge
Gathering
A.) Junior High of the Junior
School High School
B.) Survey
Agriculture Agricultures
Questionnaire
Students have
C.) Data Analysis
B.) Teachers of B.) Highlighting
Agriculture the
D.) Thematic
strategies
Analysis
that are
suited in the
area

Figure 1 : Paradigm of Conceptual Framework

Theoretical Framework

According to Oksana et.al (2020), crop production is one of the various fundamental branches
of agriculture. Crop production is the basis for providing the livestock industry with feed, and the
population with food. Additionally, crop products are used in many industries as raw materials of
plants, such as food, medicines, beauty products and many more. As per Velta et.al (2020), crop
production is a branch of agriculture, which includes the cultivation of crops in land cultivation,
vegetable growing, fruit growing, etc. Consumer goods manufacturing and food industries gets raw
materials for their products. Livestock industry, in turn, uses by-products such as straw, silage, and
food industry waste. In conclusion, Agriculture has a significant impact on our daily lives as they
provide the materials for our needs and wants.

Edward (1910) defined quality as meeting or exceeding customer expectations. As per Sadhar
et.al (2023), quality as to the degree of excellence or superiority of something. It is a measure of
how well a product, service, or process meets or exceeds customer expectations and
requirements. Quality in agriculture is the degree to which agricultural products meet safety and
quality standards. It includes the quality of the soil, the crops grown, and the animals raised and
their by products as defined by Ankina et.al (2023). To sum up, a crop that exceeds the normal
standard need more planning and effort to produce.

In 1962, Chandler defined strategy as the process of setting long-term goals, choosing actions,
and allocating resources to achieve those goals. Tefi (2023) concluded that that destination/ goal is
dictated by a set of decisions that derives from the organization’s unique characteristics that sets
the certain organization apart from its competitors. It’s a unique position the organization adopts
that concentrates efforts on a single, well-defined direction. Not only does it determine the
activities that lead to progress, but also what should be labelled as a distraction. Strategy entails
making trade-offs. Trade-offs based on the diagnosed challenges, the available resources, and the
organization’s unique strengths and weaknesses. Long-term success in business is always the
result of a good strategy and an inspiring vision.

According to Niang-Diop (2005), Adaptation Strategy (AS) can be defined as a general plan of
action for addressing the impacts of climate change, including climate variability and extremes.
Depending on the circumstances, the strategy can be comprehensive at a national level,
addressing adaptation across sectors, regions and vulnerable populations, or it can be more
limited, focusing on just one or two sectors or regions. Agriculture strategy is a systematic
investigation that Iyzes and evaluates different approaches and plans to improve agricultural
practices, considering factors like production efficiency, sustainability, market demands, and
environmental impact, aiming to develop a strategic roadmap for future agricultural development in
a specific region or context as concluded in the research of Elena (2023).

As a fundamental component of land ecosystems, most living organisms are sustained by soil,
which is also the key supplier of their nutritional requirements Dumanski (2013). However, with the
advancement of Agricultural technologies, Hydroponics and Aeroponics made it possible to plant
without the use of soil. The introduction of these planting techniques may help the young farmers
of Tublay School of Home Industries in their way of producing crops.
 10

Chapter III
Methodology

This research chapter contains important information regarding the development and
implementation of the research plan. The description of the research design, population or
sampling method and instrument is also presented in this research chapter.

Research Design

This research design utilized the phenomenological approach in order to investigate the
various strategies implemented by the Junior High School Agricultures in Tublay School of Home
Industries. Croswell (1996) defines phenomenological approach as a form of qualitative research
that seeks to examine and understand an event or phenomena as it occurs in its place in time. The
researchers found respondents who willingly shared their lived experience for the research study.
The participants of this research study were the Junior High School Agricultures of Tublay School
of Home Industries. The data was gathered through a survey questionnaire and were interpreted
using thematic analysis. The researchers also made sure not to violate the rule of confidentiality in
this research study.

Participants of the Study

The participants of this research study was the Junior High School Agricultures in Tublay
School of Home Industries. The researchers used total population sampling techniques in
selecting the participants. According to Sugiyono (2014), total population sampling is a sampling
technique where the entire population is used as the sample. It’s often used when the population is
small, or when the research wants to make generalizations with a very small error. The entirety all
Junior High School Agricultures was selected to participate in the research study. The other
students which does not belong to Junior High School Agricultures were not included in the scope
of this research. Their respective teachers were also included as they had a great influence about
the student’s knowledge about Agriculture.

11

Data Collections Procedure

The researchers constructed a survey questionnaire which gathered the informations required
in this research study. The survey questionnaire was the main instrument used in gathering data.
The researchers clarified the instructions and questions thus the respondents had answered
without difficulty. After the respondents answered the survey questionnaires, the researchers
collected the given questionnaires and interpreted the gathered data.

Data Analysis

The researchers analyzed and interpreted the data gathered through a survey questionnaires
using the thematic analysis. According to Aukland (2006), thematic analysis is a qualitative
research that classifies common topic and categorizing then to create patterns with their
similarities. Additionally, thematic analysis is used in data coding, data familiarisation and theme
development. Thus, the researchers examined and pointed out the reoccurring themes and
patterns related to the strategies of Junior High School Agricultures. The researchers organized
the gathered data, categorized them and interpreted the findings.

Ethical Issues

The researchers made sure not to violate the rule of confidentiality by ensuring to preserved
authorized restriction on the access and disclosure on the participant’s personal information
together with their responses. Since this research study was dependant on the information given
by the respondents, the researchers made sure all the selected respondents participated. The
researchers also avoided any biases and manipulation in handling the gathered data.

Definition of Terms

Crop yields – Harvested production per unit of harvested area for crop products.

Sustainable farming practices – Producing food and livestock over the long term with minimal
negative effects on the environment.

Drainage – The process of removing excess water from the soil or land.

Crop management – Agricultural practices used to improve the growth, development, and yield of
crops.

12

Crop analysis - Process of examining and evaluating the health, growth, and potential yield of a
crop.

Adaption – The process of adjusting to climate change, soil conditions, and other environmental
changes.

One-size-fits-all – Single solution that can be applied to all problems.

Insecticide – Chemicals used to kill or control insects that damage crops.

Fungicide – Pesticides that kill or prevent the growth of fungi and their spores.

Modern technologies – Technologies help farmers increase efficiency, productivity, and crop yields
that includes artificial intelligence.

Pre-harvest – All activities that take place before a crop or livestock is harvested.

Cultivation – The act of preparing soil and raising crops.

Post-harvest - Stage of crop production immediately following harvest, including cooling, cleaning,
sorting and packing.

Irrigation – Artificial application of water to crops and soil.

Agriculture – The practice of growing crops and raising animals to produce food, fiber, fuel, and
other products.

Climate change – Changing weather patterns, water availability, and crop yields.
Integrated pest management (IPM) – Strategy that uses a combination of methods to control
pests.

Hydroponics – Process of growing plants in sand, gravel, or liquid, with added nutrients but without
soil.

Aeroponics – Process of growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil or an
aggregate medium.

13

The Strategies of Junior High School Agriculture

Students in Producing Quality Crops in

Tublay School of Home Industries

Dear Respondents,

We, the Grade 11 Agriculture students, are currently conducting a research entitled “The
Strategies of Junior High School students in Producing Quality Crops in Tublay School of Home
Industries”. In regards to our research study, we would like to request your participation in this
research by answering the following questions honestly. Kindly rest assured that all your
responses in this research study will remain confidential and will be used solely for research
purposes only. Your cooperation will be highly appreciated.

Truly yours,

Grade 11 Researchers

Interview Questionnaire
Instructions: Please answer all given questions efficiently. Kindly ask for assistance if there’s any
problem we can help you with. You can use own native language in answering (Ibaloi, Kankana-
ey, Ilocano etc.).

I. Respondent’s Profiles

Name (Optional): ____________________

Grade:_____ Section:_____

II. Strategies in Producing Quality Crops.

1. What are the strategies in producing a quality crop?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

III. Problems Encountered and Solutions.

1. What problems do you commonly face in farming?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

2.What would be your solutions to address these problems?/

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

IV. Pieces of Advice to Beginners.

1. What advices can you give to beginners that may help them on their journey?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________