Readiness of Higher Education Institutions (HEIS)with Basic Education Program on the Implementation of K-12in General Santos City

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of readiness of Higher Education Institutions (HEI's) with Basic Education Program on the full blast implementation of K-12 reform in General Santos City.

METHODS

The schools involved in the study were the city's major players in the academe industry, which consist of the following: Holy Trinity College of General Santos City (HTC-GSC), Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU) and Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges (RMMC). The instruments used to collect data were mainly questionnaires and interviews. Data collected were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively.

RESULTS

This study revealed several salient features: firstly, the institutions matured in terms of operation, offered variety of courses, and accredited by different accrediting national and international agencies. Secondly, the institutions are working from top to bottom management to prepare for the Senior High School implementation. And lastly, the institutions who anticipate the displacement and exit of teachers, decrease in enrollment which definitely lead to the decrease of income are working hand in hand with Department of Education (Department of Education) to materialize their plan for the said implementation. In summary, the findings of this investigation seemed to provide insights on how school administrators and teachers will prepare for the possible effects of this implementation to their respective institutions.

DISCUSSIONS

In conclusion, the findings confirm that there are factors contributing to the level of readiness of HEI's with Basic Education Program: (1) qualification of teachers and faculty to suit in the new educational scheme and the massive hiring of public school teachers by Department of Education; (2) the preparation of school facilities and laboratories to meet the K-12 standards; (3) the possible decrease in enrollment; and (4) decrease in income. SWOT analysis and SOR matrix are formulated in this study so that school administrators can set strategic plan on addressing the financial challenge. Among the major recommendations mentioned is the ability of HEIs to offer the three (3) tracks of K-12 to capture the number of enrollees, taking initiative of teachers/faculties to acquire competences and the creation of a committee from different sector of the society to evaluate existing HEIs resources and facilities for K-12 framework.