Philippine E-Journals

Assessing Undergraduate Research Competence: Readiness for Research-oriented Jobs

Elvira R. Arellano | Lourdes N. Morano | Cherry T. Nepomuceno

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This descriptive research conducted among 963graduating students in a state-funded university in the Philippines, AY 2011-2012, aims to determine proficiency level of students in basic research skills. A two-part 25-point examination was used to determine their research skills proficiency. Results showed that students are able to identify factors when choosing a research problem, formulate the conclusions from research findings, apply sampling techniques, correctly choose data gathering instrument, and identify variables as the majority of students correctly answered the respective items. Less than half are able to state hypothesis, choose appropriate scale for qualitative variables, identify appropriate statistical test, identify research design, and state elements of the introduction of a research proposal. Students performed poorly in outlining the general steps and procedure for carrying out a research project. Majority of the students is not proficient in the lower order research competencies. Despite research exposure of college students starting from secondary education, results seem to reveal that students who will soon join the labor market are not fully equipped with research skills for them to engage in research-oriented jobs.