Building a Future-ready Workforce: A Bicol University Alumni Outcomes and Curriculum Evaluation of the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Foundations Program
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48017/dj.v11i2.3808Keywords:
Bicol Universit, Graduate program assessment, Educational foundations, Curriculum evaluation, Alumni outcomes, Future-ready workforceAbstract
This tracer study examined the employment outcomes, skills gaps, and industry demands relevant to graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Foundations (PhDEF) program from 2015 to 2022. It also assessed the program’s alignment with the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Order No. 15, series of 2019, which sets the standards for graduate education in the Philippines. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative data. Online surveys were administered to alumni through Google Forms, while interviews with selected alumni and employers provided deeper insights into employment experiences and industry expectations. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings indicate that PhDEF graduates are performing well in academic and administrative roles, occupying positions with strong career potential, with all respondents currently employed. However, results reveal a disparity in the utilization of research competencies. Graduates employed in basic education institutions have limited opportunities to apply research skills, as research is not a primary component of their roles, while those in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) demonstrate greater engagement in research activities. These findings suggest that while the program effectively supports graduate employability, enhancing its research orientation and clarifying a niche specialization are necessary to strengthen its quality, relevance, and alignment with diverse professional contexts. Based on these findings, the study recommends the identification of a clear field of specialization to enhance program focus and distinctiveness, as well as the strengthening of vertical articulation to ensure coherence across offerings and responsiveness to evolving academic and industry demands.
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