Competency and Needs of Technical Vocational Teachers in the Division of Aklan

This research aimed to assess the general and technical competency of Technical Vocational Education (TVE) teachers in the schools Division of Aklan. It also determined the competency needs and gaps in teaching TVE in the implementation of the program. The study was participated by 118 TVE teachers. Mixed-methods research design using sequential strategy was employed in this study. The Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers was used as guide for assessing the general level of competency while self-assessment guide of TESDA was used to assess the level of technical competency. The quantitative data were used as bases in the conduct of focus group discussions to triangulate the responses in the survey. The general competency level of TVE teachers was described as “highly proficient” while the technical competency level was reported on the “advanced” level. The gaps identified were: (1) teacher-subject mismatch, (2) inadequate skills in applying math and science principles in technical training, (3) struggle in promoting understanding of global labor markets, (4) inability to lead workplace communication (5) lack of content knowledge and pedagogy, (6) lack of competence in assessment and reporting, (7) insufficient trainings related to area of specialization, and (8) expired and unaligned national certificates (nc).The competency needs identified were:(1) activities that would enhance competency, (2) motivation and opportunities to acquire/enhance, and apply competency, and (3) renewed professionalism and rejuvenated teaching advocacy and calling. 

Well Being After Natural Disasters Resources, Coping Strategies and Resilience

This study examines the effects of resilience, optimism, and loss of resources on the psychological well being of the survivors of Pakistani earthquake of 2005 that occurred in the northern regions of Pakistan. The study was carried out in three phases, in the first phase the measures for the study Psychological well being scale, life orientation test (revised),Resilience scale, and Impact of event scale were adapted and translated in to Urdu by the researcher. A sample of 221 survivors was utilized and the construct validity of the measures was determined through factor analysis. In the second phase the hypothesis that there is a positive relationship between resilience, optimism, loss of resources and Psychological well being was tested, using a 100 able bodied survivors who were living in the shelters of Muzafarabad (50 males & 50 females) was taken. Interviews were held individually with each survivor and their responses on the measures were recorded as majority of the sample was illiterate. Hierarchical regression and path analysis was carried out to determine the relationship between the variables and the well-being of the survivors. In the third phase, interviews of 100 survivors were qualitatively analyzed to identify themes and highlight the factors that have contributed directly and indirectly to their well being. The discussion highlights the role of cultural background and the local perspective of the well being of the survivors in this region. The implications of the study are discussed.