Volume 1 Series 2024

This study explores the awareness and attitudes of students at the University of Saint Louis towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to inform and enhance the university’s sustainability initiatives. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study surveyed 948 respondents from both undergraduate and Basic Education programs, employing a stratified random sampling technique for representation across various departments and age groups. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, which assessed students’ awareness and attitudes using a Likert scale. Findings reveal a strong understanding of the SDGs, particularly emphasizing Quality Education and Clean Water and Sanitation as significant in students’ lives. However, the study identifies areas for improvement in personal involvement in SDG-related activities, indicating that while awareness is high, active participation is lacking. These insights underscore the need for ongoing efforts to enhance student engagement with the SDGs at the university.

The role of barangay health workers is crucial in the implementation of community-based health programs, and as such, they must be equipped with the needed competencies in order for them to carry out these roles. The University of Saint Louis has established a partnership with barangay San Antonio in Enrile, Cagayan. To assist the community in the implementation of health-related activities, it is important to know the capacity of the barangay health services and human resources. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the training needs of the barangay health workers of San Antonio, Enrile, Cagayan. This descriptive quantitative study was conducted among the 6 BHWs of the barangay using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed the training needs of the BHWs along community organization, health education, and provision of health care services. Frequency and percentage, mean, and rank were used to analyze the data collected. The results revealed that training in all three areas assessed in the study was all very important for the BHWs. Moreover, the number of BHWs in the barangay does not meet the BHW-to-client ratio recommended by the DOH. The researchers therefore conclude that the number of BHWs in the barangay must be increased to meet the recommended ratio and that they require a formal and continuous training program to help in the performance of their roles as community organizer, health educator, and provider of healthcare services. As such, the university, through its Community Engagement and CICM Advocacies office, designed a training program for the BHWs and selected volunteers in the community along community organization, health education, and health care service provision to address these identified needs. This program will be implemented in partnership with the different departments of the university, the local government unit of Enrile, and some non-government and government institutions.

In every community, the vibrancy and potential of its youth serve as the driving force behind progress, innovation, and social change. The study aimed to assess the level of youth development in the community. Mixed methods were utilized among forty-three (43) youth. The findings revealed that youth have low involvement, engagement, and retention. Thus, significant differences were found in youth involvement and engagement when grouped according to youth profile. With that, crafting a meaningful and sustainable extension program is deemed necessary to amplify the youth engagement and involvement in the community.

This research paper explores the evolving landscape of graduate education, shifting from traditional research and classroom-based learning towards more holistic and experiential methodologies, particularly through the incorporation of Service Learning Programs (SLPs). The study aims to assess the conduct and impact of SLPs among graduate school students within the academic environment, employing a mixed-method design with an explanatory sequential approach. Quantitative data were collected through a survey questionnaire, while qualitative insights were obtained through interviews. The research focused on 30 graduate school students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) and the Doctor of Education (EdD) programs at the School of Graduate Studies and Continuing Professional Development (SGSCPD) of the University of Saint Louis. The survey results revealed a very high level of assessment among graduate students regarding the effects of SLPs on academic development, civic engagement, personal growth, perceived community impact, and global inclusivity.

The University of Saint Louis, as a Catholic CICM institution, initiates and participates in constructive and relevant social activities for the promotion of justice, peace, and integrity of creation. This is attested by its gift-giving program called “Alay Pasko,” which has been sustained since 1990. Funds for this project come from the initiatives and donations of the whole Louisiana community. Its prime purpose is to make the marginalized families feel the Christmas spirit of sharing. The practice of giving is done during the Christmas season, where employees and students distribute grocery/noche buena gifts to the recipients. This exemplifies a person who shares his blessings with others. Reflection sheets are filled out by the participants after the conduct of the program to process their experiential learning and critically assess their experiences in relation to the objective of the program and vision-mission of the university. The reflection sheets filled out by 27 teachers were used to materialize the purpose of the study. The reflections are studied, and three themes were deduced, which include social awareness and responsibility; Christian spirituality and values; and self-realization and worthiness. Results of the study show that the “Alay Pasko” has permitted the teachers to recognize their talents and blessings and their clients, which will only be appreciated if these are shared with others, especially those who are in most need. Consequently, the program made them realize that happiness and contentment are also achieved through sharing one’s blessings and helping others. Furthermore, the study reveals that the “Alay Pasko” has awakened the teachers to the realities and needs of the society, hence, prompting them to be responsible not only for themselves but also for others. Also, it shows that reaching out to people made the teachers exemplify their Christian obligation of involving oneself in the life of others and the community, thus, serving. Finally, the results attest that the university has always been consistent in its involvement in constructive and relevant social activities, therefore, developing individuals as responsive citizens of the country and worth emulating Christians.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of health-related community engagement activities implemented by a Nursing program in a specific barangay. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed to gather data. A researcher-made questionnaire was administered to 182 randomly selected residents to assess the impact of the activities on their health and well-being. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 community members and health workers, and 50 students' Learning Feedback Diaries were analyzed to gather qualitative data. The findings revealed that the community engagement activities had a significant positive impact on the health of the community members, particularly in the areas of maternal and child health, nutrition, and disease prevention and control. These positive effects were achieved through health education and increased community participation. The study concludes that the community engagement activities not only benefited the community but also enhanced the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the nursing students, preparing them for future professional practice.

In our region, the threat of typhoons is an inevitable part that we face, often resulting in widespread devastation of financial losses and the destruction of homes, businesses, or personal belongings. This study aims to assess the typhoon-related anxiety and coping strategies among residents of flood-prone areas. The researchers aim to explore the experiences of the residents in dealing with anxiety related to climate change, assess the nuanced aspects of the mental health of individuals across their demographic profile, and acknowledge their coping strategies and the manifestation of anxiety towards typhoon-related anxiety, specifically during the flood. A total of 60 participants participated in the study and revealed that the respondents demonstrated great differences in climate change anxiety among sex and different income brackets. The results indicate that women showed higher levels of concern towards climate change anxiety. Furthermore, data implies that lower levels of climate change anxiety are associated with cognitive-emotional impairment, functional impairment, and behavioral engagement among respondents with lower income brackets, leaving the respondents in higher income brackets to have higher levels of climate change anxiety. The findings of qualitative data revealed that the coping strategies among the flood-prone residents vary among individuals, which plays a vital role in the healthy management of stress. The other one is negative coping strategies, which may lead to unhealthy ways to cope with the challenges.

Natural disasters are predominant in the Philippines, especially typhoons and floods, where poor communities are affected; it is inevitable in nature. However, these consequences of devastating effects can be prevented and mitigated through proper and efficient implementation of programs and policies related to disaster risk reduction and management. This paper aims to determine the compliance and implementation of policies and programs of the disaster-prone barangays in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, related to disaster risk management before, during, and after disasters, particularly on typhoons. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative types of research, which included in-depth interviews and questionnaires as the main instruments. In-depth interviews were conducted with the citizens and barangay officials to determine the different programs and activities related to disaster risk management. Meanwhile, a standard questionnaire was utilized to determine the compliance and implementation of the Barangay Government Unit on Disaster Risk Management. Results reveal that subject barangays are not that efficient and active in the compliance and implementation of disaster risk management programs and policies in their community. In which geographical location and rural-urban community classification affect the implementation of the different programs and policies related to disaster risk management. Furthermore, the study found out that there is a significant difference in the extent of compliance and implementation of Republic Act 10121 when grouped according to barangays. Overall, the different programs and policies of the barangays related to disaster risk management are not efficiently implemented. The results lend ideas for future implementation and execution of policies and programs directly concerning managing disasters, particularly typhoons.

This study investigated the vegetable gardening skills of Grade 5 pupils at the University of Saint Louis, focusing on both knowledge and practical abilities. The findings revealed a fair level of knowledge and good practical skills in vegetable gardening. Based on these results, Project GROW (Gardening Readiness and Optimization Workshop) is proposed to further enhance students' gardening competency. This project outlines specific objectives, activities, timelines, and expected outcomes, aiming to improve theoretical knowledge and practical skills and integrate gardening education into the curriculum to foster environmental literacy and sustainable practices.

This study investigates the effectiveness of regular mass attendance on the development of Christian faith in young minds. Through qualitative analysis, this research explores how Mass attendance influences students' understanding of Christian teachings, moral guidance, and sense of community. By examining pupils' reflections and experiences, the study elucidates the multifaceted benefits of Mass attendance, including the accessibility and relevance of religious teachings, the reinforcement of moral principles, and the cultivation of a strong sense of belonging within the faith community. Findings suggest that Mass serves as a vital educational and spiritual platform, nurturing students' religious knowledge, identity, and connection to their faith. This research contributes to understanding the role of religious practices in shaping young minds and underscores the importance of fostering spiritual development in elementary education.