Research Competence and Practices of Secondary School Teachers in SDO Batangas City

Abstract

This study, entitled “Research Competence and Practices of Secondary School Teachers in SDO Batangas City,” examined how teachers’ knowledge and application of research contribute to the development of a research culture in public secondary schools. Anchored on Constructivism Theory and the Capacity Building Framework, the study emphasized the importance of research-based practices as supported by the Department of Education through policies such as DepEd Order No. 16, s. 2017 and DepEd Order No. 39, s. 2016, which encourage teachers to become active contributors to educational innovation.

The study aimed to determine the teachers’ level of research competence and practices, the extent of utilization of research practices in developmental activities, and the challenges encountered in conducting research. To achieve these objectives, the study employed a descriptive-correlational research design. A total of 266 public secondary school teachers in Batangas City participated in the study using a validated researcher-made questionnaire. Slovin’s formula was utilized in determining the sample size, while descriptive statistics were used to analyze the gathered data.

The findings revealed significant relationships between teachers’ level of research competence and the extent of utilization of their research practices, indicating that higher levels of competence lead to more effective application of research in teaching, school programs, and classroom-based innovations. The study also identified key challenges that hinder teachers from fully engaging in research activities. Based on the findings, a developmental activity was proposed to strengthen teachers’ research competence and practices through capacity-building programs such as seminars, workshops, mentoring, and increased administrative support to further promote a strong research culture in schools.