Philippine E-Journals

LEARNING BY DOING: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN CAPACITY BUILDING OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN AGRICULTURE AT PhilRice

Leonilo Gramaje | Joanne D Caguiat | OE Manangkil | EC Arocena | NL Manigbas | JC Berto | Xavier I Caguiat

 

Abstract:

Learning does not only happen within the four corners of the classroom. Students look forward to put theories into practice. This study aimed at evaluating the impact of internship at Plant Breeding and Biotechnology Division (PBBD) of Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Central Experiment Station (CES) of several local and international higher education institutions (HEIs). PBBD catered 40 agriculture students from NEUST, DMMMSU, CLSU, MINSCAT, and KKUTHAILAND from 2012-2017 in the conduct of their theses, major practice, and data analyses on hybrid rice breeding and seed production. The students were provided with tasks-to-do appropriate to their field of specialization. This study evaluated the students’ capacity of engagement in field work, contributions to the hybrid rice breeding program, and learnings from linking with HEI using active feedback mechanisms, key informant analysis and tracer methods. Majority of the students rated their experience as excellent and relevant to their learning and to their future career (60%) and most of the appreciative students are currently practicing agriculturists in both private and government service. The learning-by-doing approach enabled them to practice and grasp every process of the tasks. This study proved the relevance of collaboration that could enhance the capacity of students. Strong partnership between research agencies and HEIs could provide important role to future professionals of this country.