IMPACT OF WORK IMMERSION IN SPECIALIZED SUBJECTS OF HOME ECONOMICS STUDENTS AT IMMACULADA CONCEPCION COLLEGE

Abstract

Work immersion is a crucial component of modern education, offering students valuable hands-on experience and helping employers find skilled individuals. For Grade 12 students in home economics, work immersion provides practical learning opportunities in real-world environments, such as restaurants and bakeries, where they acquire essential skills like cooking, budgeting, and customer service. As educational institutions aim to prepare students for their future careers, work immersion becomes an effective strategy for enhancing practical knowledge and skill development. In this context, the research explores the impact of work immersion on the skill development and understanding of Grade 12 home economics students. By investigating the effects of work immersion, this study seeks to generate insights that can inform educational practices and policies in the Philippines. While acknowledging the limitations of its scope, the research will draw on relevant literature to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the subject. This study employed a quantitative research method to gather data on the impact of work immersion in specialized subjects of Home Economics students at Immaculada Concepcion College. Data were collected using survey questionnaires, administered to 124 Grade 12 Home Economics students. The survey was designed to assess the students' experiences and perceptions of how work immersion influenced their skill development and understanding in specialized subjects. The study’s findings indicate that work immersion has a positive impact on Grade 12 Home Economics students, particularly in enhancing their culinary skills, teamwork abilities, and practical experience. Students reported significant improvements in their baking and culinary proficiency, as well as a stronger sense of teamwork. The survey revealed that essential skills such as attention to detail, food safety knowledge, patience, creativity, and precision in measurements were particularly emphasized during work immersion. These skills are vital for success in Home Economics and contribute to students' overall personal and professional development. Overall, the results underscore the significant role of work immersion in fostering both the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for success in the field. The data collected strongly supports the positive impact of work immersion on students' culinary skills and overall professional development. As shown in Table 1, work immersion received a high average rating of 3.64, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing practical experiences and fostering teamwork abilities. In addition, Table 2 highlights the critical skills necessary for success in home economics, such as attention to detail, food safety knowledge, patience, creativity, and precision in measurements, with an average rating of 3.63. These findings reinforce the significant role of work immersion in both skill development and the cultivation of essential qualities that contribute to students' success in home economics education.