Graduate School

Name: _____________________________ Date: _______________

COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION
Master of Arts in Education
Part I

1. At the metaphysical level, explain briefly the ff. Broad Philosophical Schools of
thoughts that apply to education today.
Explain the ff. briefly
a. Idealism
In the educational sphere, idealism advocates for the development of the inner life
of the student. Education is seen as a way to explore and cultivate moral and
intellectual virtues. Idealist educators believe that true knowledge comes from
engaging with universal ideas that transcend physical reality, such as ethical
principles, artistic beauty, and philosophical concepts. Students are encouraged to
seek truth through intellectual reflection, reading classical works, and developing
their rational capacities. The idealist approach emphasizes deep thought, moral
judgment, and the formation of a well-rounded character, viewing education as a
means of elevating the human spirit.

b. Realism
Realism in education underscores the importance of teaching students objective
facts and concepts about the natural and social world. Realists argue that education
should focus on real-world knowledge and develop the student's ability to observe,
analyze, and understand the world as it is. In practice, this means a strong emphasis
on subjects like science, technology, and mathematics that are based on empirical
evidence and logical reasoning. Teachers are expected to guide students through
structured lessons that help them understand the principles governing the physical
world, preparing them to apply their knowledge in practical, real-world situations.

c. Pragmatism (experientialism)
Pragmatism in education focuses on the idea that knowledge is best learned
through active engagement and practical experience. Pragmatist educators believe
that students learn most effectively when they are involved in problem-solving tasks
that mimic real-life challenges. In this model, the curriculum is often flexible and
designed to encourage students to test ideas, experiment, and learn by doing.
Learning is viewed as a continuous process of adapting to new situations, testing
hypotheses, and reflecting on outcomes. Teachers act as facilitators who help
students draw connections between what they already know and new experiences,
fostering skills that are directly applicable to life outside the classroom.

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 d. Existentialism

is a philosophical school of thought that emphasizes individual freedom,

choice, and responsibility. It asserts that individuals create their own meaning
in life through their actions, decisions, and experiences, and that existence
precedes essence. This means that humans are not born with a predetermined
purpose or essence but must define themselves through the choices they make.

In education, existentialism focuses on the personal development of students

and encourages them to explore their unique identities, values, and purpose in
life. The educational approach is centered around personal experience, self-
reflection, and self-discovery. Existentialist educators emphasize the
importance of students making authentic choices about their lives, and they
encourage students to confront and understand life's uncertainties and
challenges.

2. Explain in the simplest way you can, how the ff. most important psychological
approaches in education have influenced our ideas about the nature of Learning
process.
a. Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis, founded by Sigmund Freud, focuses on the influence of the
unconscious mind and past experiences on current behavior. In education, this
approach emphasizes that emotional and psychological factors can affect a
student's ability to learn. If a student has unresolved issues or is experiencing stress,
it can make learning harder. This has led to a focus on supporting students'
emotional well-being in the classroom to help them perform better academically.

b. Behaviorism
Behaviorism, promoted by B.F. Skinner, suggests that learning happens through
changes in behavior, which are shaped by rewards or punishments. Students learn
by associating actions with consequences. For example, if a student is rewarded for
completing an assignment, they are more likely to repeat that behavior. In
education, this approach has influenced teachers to use rewards, praise, or other
incentives to motivate students and reinforce desired behaviors, encouraging them
to learn through repetition and practice.

c. Humanistic psychology
Humanistic psychology, led by figures like Maslow and Rogers, focuses on personal
growth, self-fulfillment, and the emotional needs of students. It believes that for
students to learn effectively, their feelings of self-worth and belonging must be
supported. In education, this approach has influenced the development of student-
centered learning, where teachers focus on helping students feel valued and

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 encourage them to take responsibility for their own learning. It also emphasizes
motivation through self-discovery and the pursuit of personal potential.

d. Neurobiological approach and,

The neurobiological approach looks at how the brain functions and how it changes
as we learn. Advances in neuroscience show that the brain is constantly adapting
and forming new connections based on experiences. This understanding has
influenced education by encouraging practices that support brain development,
such as incorporating physical activity, nutrition, and sufficient sleep into the
learning process. It also suggests using a variety of sensory methods in teaching to
stimulate different parts of the brain for better learning outcomes.

e. Cognitive psychology
Cognitive psychology focuses on how the brain processes information, including
how we remember, think, and problem-solve. It views learning as an active process
where students organize and make sense of new information based on what they
already know. In education, this approach has influenced strategies like teaching
critical thinking, problem-solving, and helping students develop strategies for
remembering and understanding concepts deeply. It emphasizes the importance of
students' mental processes in learning, rather than just memorizing facts.

3. Define and differentiate the (4) most employed types of research mentioned
below:

a. Quantitative
Quantitative research involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to
identify patterns, relationships, or trends. It focuses on measuring variables and
testing hypotheses using statistical methods. This type of research aims to quantify
attitudes, behaviors, opinions, or other phenomena, allowing for generalization of
results to a larger population. Examples include surveys, experiments, and statistical
analyses.

b. Qualitative
Qualitative research focuses on understanding phenomena through detailed, non-
numeric data, such as interviews, focus groups, or observations. It explores the
meanings, experiences, and interpretations of individuals, often within a specific
context. This type of research provides deep insights into how people think, feel, or
act, but it does not produce statistical or generalized conclusions.

c. Descriptive
Descriptive research is used to describe the characteristics of a particular individual,
group, or phenomenon. It focuses on answering "what" questions without

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 manipulating variables or examining cause-and-effect relationships. This type of
research is typically used to gather information about a subject as it naturally
occurs. It can be both qualitative and quantitative, often utilizing surveys or case
studies to collect data.

d. Action Research
Action research is a participatory approach where researchers actively engage with
participants to solve a specific problem or improve practices in a real-world setting.
It is often used in education, healthcare, or organizational settings. Unlike traditional
research, action research involves collaboration between the researcher and those
affected by the problem, with the aim of implementing changes or improvements
based on findings. It cycles through stages of planning, acting, observing, and
reflecting.

3.1 Formulate a research topic you are interested in and familiar with.
"The Effects of Social Media on the Mental Health of Adolescents"

3.2 Which of the (4) most employed types of research do you think, should be
used to your topic? Why? Explain in not more than 100 words.
I would use qualitative research for this topic. It is most suitable because it allows for an in-
depth exploration of the personal experiences and emotions of adolescents regarding social
media use. Through interviews or focus groups, I can gain detailed insights into how social
media impacts their mental well-being, such as feelings of anxiety, depression, or self-
esteem. This approach provides a deeper understanding of the subjective experiences and
social context surrounding the issue, which quantitative data alone might not capture fully.

4. What are the parts of a thesis? Explain what are to be found under each part.

 Title Page: The title page provides the title of the thesis, the author's name, the institution,
the degree being pursued, and the date of submission. This is the first impression of the
thesis, and the title should be concise but descriptive of the research.
 Abstract: The abstract is a brief summary (usually 150-300 words) of the thesis. It highlights
the research question, methods, main findings, and conclusions. This section gives readers a
quick overview of the thesis without reading the entire document.
 Acknowledgments: In this section, the author expresses gratitude to individuals and
organizations that supported or contributed to the research, including advisors, participants,
and family members.
 Table of Contents: The table of contents lists all the chapters, subheadings, and appendices,
providing a clear outline of the structure of the thesis for easy navigation.
 Introduction: The introduction outlines the research problem, objectives, and significance of
the study. It provides background information, introduces the research question, and often
includes a brief overview of the thesis structure.

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  Literature Review: The literature review summarizes existing research related to the topic.
It identifies gaps in the literature, reviews theories, and discusses findings from previous
studies, laying the foundation for the current research.
 Methodology: This section describes the research design, methods, and tools used to collect
and analyze data. It explains the research approach, sampling techniques, data collection
methods (e.g., surveys, interviews), and data analysis procedures.
 Results: The results section presents the findings of the study. This could include statistical
data, charts, tables, or qualitative observations. It is objective and factual, reporting what
the research discovered without interpretation.
 Discussion: In this part, the author interprets the results, linking them back to the research
question and comparing them with previous studies. It explores the implications of the
findings, limitations of the study, and potential areas for future research.
 Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main findings and their significance. It restates
the research problem and provides final insights based on the results. It often includes
recommendations for policy or practice if applicable.
 References/Bibliography: This section lists all the sources cited in the thesis. It follows a
specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) to ensure consistency and credibility.
 Appendices: Appendices contain supplementary material that is relevant to the thesis but
would clutter the main sections. This might include raw data, additional charts, or
questionnaires used in the research.

5. Juvenile Delinquency, Drug addiction, gambling and alcoholism are common

social problems that beset our students in school, how could you as a teacher
considered as “Guidance Counselor”, help minimize these social problems in the
school?

As a teacher and "Guidance Counselor," I could help minimize social problems like juvenile
delinquency, drug addiction, gambling, and alcoholism by providing early intervention and
proactive support. One key approach would be to establish a comprehensive mentoring system
where students receive guidance and encouragement from trusted adults. By recognizing early
warning signs of behavioral issues, I could offer individualized counseling to address specific
concerns and help students develop healthier coping mechanisms. I would also organize group
discussions and workshops on life skills, decision-making, and conflict resolution, helping
students better handle challenges they may face. Additionally, creating a positive school culture
through peer support programs and involving students in community service could foster a
sense of responsibility and belonging, reducing the likelihood of turning to harmful behaviors.
Collaboration with local health professionals and law enforcement can also provide students
with necessary resources and interventions.

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 Graduate School

Name: _____________________________ Date: _______________

COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION
Master of Arts in Education
Part II

1. What struggles and challenges have you encountered in the teaching and
learning process in the implementation of the K to 12 program?
Explain in not less than 100 words.

In the implementation of the K to 12 program, one significant challenge has been the
curriculum's rapid shift, which has created difficulties in adjusting both for teachers and
students. Many educators faced the struggle of adapting to a new system without sufficient
training or preparation, affecting the quality of instruction. Another issue is the mismatch
between the curriculum's expectations and the readiness of educational facilities, especially in
rural areas, where there is a lack of proper infrastructure and technology. Additionally, some
students find the extended years of schooling overwhelming, leading to stress and
disengagement. The transition also created confusion among parents regarding the added years
and the system’s long-term benefits.

2. If you were the Secretary of Education, what CHANGES in the curriculum would
you make to ensure quality education?

If I were the Secretary of Education, I would introduce significant changes to make the
curriculum more relevant and effective. One key change would be to place more emphasis on
practical, hands-on learning, incorporating real-world applications of knowledge, so students
can see the direct impact of what they’re learning. I would also advocate for a more inclusive
and diverse curriculum that reflects various cultures, histories, and global perspectives to foster
greater understanding and empathy among students. Additionally, I’d introduce more flexible
learning pathways, where students can explore vocational training alongside academic tracks,
providing them with skills applicable to the workforce. Finally, I would integrate mental health
and well-being programs into the curriculum to ensure that students are not only academically
successful but also emotionally resilient and prepared for life's challenges.

3. If given the chance to choose, which country would you like to adopt as a
“MODEL” in terms of its educational setting and platform.

If given the chance to choose, I would adopt the educational system of Singapore. Singapore's
education model is highly effective due to its rigorous standards, focus on excellence, and
emphasis on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It places a strong emphasis

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 on both academic achievement and character development, ensuring that students are not only
knowledgeable but also responsible, ethical, and prepared for global challenges. The system is
structured yet flexible, with a focus on personalized learning to meet students’ needs. Teachers
in Singapore undergo extensive professional development, which ensures high-quality
instruction.

4. Do you favor teachers holding placards in the streets? Why?

Yes I do, teachers holding placards in the streets can be seen as a bold and necessary action
when the education system fails to meet their needs or the needs of their students. While
protests may disrupt the normal flow of activities, they can be a powerful tool for drawing
attention to systemic issues that affect teachers, students, and the quality of education overall.
If teachers feel their concerns are not being addressed through regular channels, public
demonstrations become a way to amplify their voices and demand necessary changes.
Ultimately, it is a form of advocacy for a better educational environment, both for educators and
learners.

5. Differentiate form each other the ff. Curriculum Design Models

a. Learner – Centered Curriculum Design Model

The Learner-Centered Curriculum Design Model emphasizes the individual needs, interests,
and abilities of students. The primary focus is on tailoring the learning experience to engage
each student, ensuring that the content and teaching strategies resonate with them
personally. In this model, students actively participate in their learning, often choosing the
direction of their projects and assessments. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students
through a process of self-discovery and reflection. The learning environment is dynamic,
with flexibility in teaching methods, allowing students to take ownership of their education,
which helps foster motivation and a deeper understanding of the material.

b. Subject – Centered Curriculum Design Model

The Subject-Centered Curriculum Design Model is structured around specific academic
disciplines or subjects, such as mathematics, history, or literature. In this model, the
curriculum focuses on the content and knowledge within these subjects, emphasizing
mastery of specific concepts and skills. The teacher serves as the central authority, and
students are expected to absorb information and demonstrate proficiency in each subject
area. This approach often follows a fixed timetable and curriculum, with less focus on
individual student interests or flexibility.

c. Problem – Centered Curriculum Design Model

The Problem-Centered Curriculum Design Model revolves around addressing real-world
issues, encouraging students to use interdisciplinary approaches to find solutions. The
curriculum is structured around problems or challenges that require critical thinking,

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collaboration, and practical application of knowledge. This model emphasizes active, hands-
on learning, where students engage with real-life scenarios and work together to solve
complex problems. It fosters teamwork, communication, and the integration of knowledge
from various disciplines, preparing students for real-world problem-solving.

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