The International Journal of Education, Management and Social Sciences
The International Journal of Education, Management and Social Sciences serves as a dedicated platform for scholarly exploration and dissemination. With a global perspective, the journal aims to facilitate dialogue among researchers, educators, and practitioners, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the promotion of sustainable community development worldwide. The journal was formed by merging the PSU Multidisciplinary Research Journal, the PSU Journal of Education, Management and Social Sciences, and the Philippine Journal of Extension. eISSN: 3082-5377 Journal Type: Single-Blind, Peer-Reviewed and Open Access Journal Publication Frequency: Semi-Annually Publisher: Pangasinan State University Address: Alvear Street, Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines Journal Template: The Journal Template
PRODUCTION OF BLUE SALT IN ALAMINOS CITY PANGASINAN
This study explores the blue salt production process in Alaminos City, Pangasinan, a region well-known for its customs surrounding the production of salt. It seeks to determine the degree of acceptance in terms of texture, appearance, and packaging, as well as the overall satisfaction with the product, when the respondents were categorized based on age, sex, and address. It also attempts to determine the acceptability of blue salt in terms of flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance. A sample of the product was provided by the researcher to the respondents prior to them answering a survey questionnaire used for data gathering. The collected data were collated and subjected to statistical analysis. The experimental research design was used in this study through random sampling among the 100 respondents from different Barangays in Alaminos City. The findings of the study indicate that the manufacture of blue salt might be considered acceptable, as indicated by the respondents' preferences. The results showed that the production of blue salt in Alaminos City Pangasinan as the primary ingredient was feasible and established its marketability.
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BEYOND TEACHING: A CASE STUDY OF PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS OF AGUILAR DISTRICT IN HANDLING CLASSROOM CONFLICT
This case study discusses the experiences and approaches of public school teachers in Aguilar District, Pangasinan, in responding to classroom conflict. Using 429 public school teachers as respondents from 22 public schools, the study examines the nature of conflict encountered, its effect on the teaching-learning process, and conflict management styles. Findings reveal that behavioral disruptions, interpersonal student conflicts, and authority issues are the most common forms of conflict. These diminish instructional time considerably, lower students' involvement, and cause teachers' burnout and stress. Teachers at the elementary level adopt accommodating and compromising styles, but high school teachers adopt more assertive or collaborative styles. The class size, experience, school climate, administrative support, and cultural norms like pakikisama and hiya are the effectors of influencing factors. Findings support that classroom conflict is not just a behavior but a system-level, multi-faceted problem entrenched in the socio-emotional and institutional culture of Philippine public schooling. The teacher is not just a teacher but a mediator and emotional nurturer. The research emphasizes the necessity of contextualized professional development, institutional support, and culturally responsive pedagogy to assist teachers in this multi-faceted endeavor. It centers on the empowerment of teachers with constant training and support to create more harmonious, inclusive classrooms.
Classroom conflict, Conflict Management Styles, Public School Teachers
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SUSTAINABLE TOURISM PRACTICES ON MARINE ECOTOURISM IN WESTERN PANGASINAN
Marine ecotourism has emerged as a vital sector in sustainable tourism, particularly in coastal regions where biodiversity and livelihoods are closely intertwined. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of sustainable tourism practices on marine ecotourism in Western Pangasinan, focusing on the City of Alaminos and Municipality of Bolinao, two areas renowned for their rich marine ecosystems and tourism potential. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered from 385 respondents (male – 228; female-157), including residents, tourists, tourism personnel/environmental officers, tour guides, and boatmen, through random sampling and survey questionnaires. The research explores the level of awareness, challenges, and opportunities in implementing sustainable tourism practices, as well as their impacts on marine ecosystems and local communities. Findings highlight that both municipalities have adopted diverse sustainable tourism practices such as regular water quality monitoring, mangrove rehabilitation, coastal clean-ups, eco-friendly infrastructure, and livelihood programs. These practices contribute significantly to marine conservation, community empowerment, and enhanced visitor experiences. However, persistent challenges such as pollution, habitat degradation, overfishing, overcrowding, and climate change continue to threaten the sustainability of marine ecotourism. Results underscore the importance of inclusive stakeholder participation, policy support, and continuous education in strengthening sustainable tourism. This study concludes that while current sustainable tourism practices in the City of Alaminos and Municipality of Bolinao demonstrate positive impacts, their long-term effectiveness depends on integrated strategies that balance and support environmental preservation, economic benefits, and social responsibility. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, tourism stakeholders, and future researchers in advancing sustainable tourism practices on marine ecotourism in Western Pangasinan and beyond.
EXPLORING PROJECT-BASED LEARNING IN ENHANCING CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS OF PUPILS
The findings revealed that teachers predominantly adopt highly interactive, student-centered PBL activities to foster critical thinking. Among the strategies used, educational Games and Role-Playing ranked highest (50% usage rate), followed by Differentiated Tasks, Visual Aids, and ICT-Based Activities (25% each), while Hands-on Tasks were the least used (12.5%). Despite the positive cognitive growth observed in pupils, teachers faced notable implementation barriers. Student Readiness and Group Dynamics emerged as the most significant challenge (62.5%), closely followed by Time Management Constraints (50%), Classroom Management (25%), and Resource Limitations (12.5%). To optimize PBL execution, respondents strongly recommended strategic Resource Allocation (62.5%) and increased Administrative Support and Flexible Curriculum Design (50%). Overall, the study concludes that while PBL is a powerful driver for developing analytical and problem-solving skills in young learners, its success relies heavily on institutional support, adequate material resources, and targeted teacher training.
Alaminos City, Project-Based Learning, Critical Thinking, Pupils, Elementary Education, Mixed Methods
ENHANCING PROFESSIONALISM: GROOMING, CUSTOMER AND QUALITY SERVICE TRAINING FOR BOATMEN IN ALAMINOS CITY, PANGASINAN
This study explores the professional development of boatmen in Alaminos City, Pangasinan, with a focus on two key aspects: proper grooming and customer service. As frontliners in the tourism industry, boatmen play a crucial role in shaping visitors' experiences, particularly in the renowned Hundred Islands National Park. Beyond ensuring safe and efficient transportation, their professionalism significantly influences tourist satisfaction and the overall image of the destination. This research examines the current state of grooming, customer and quality service training among boatmen, identifies challenges they encounter, and explores potential strategies for improvement. By aligning their professional skills with the high standards of the tourism industry, this study aims to enhance service quality, boost visitor satisfaction, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Alaminos City's tourism sector.
ANALYSIS OF COFFEE SHOP OPERATIONS USING PORTER’S FIVE COMPETITIVE FORCES MODEL
This study analyzes the competitive forces affecting the operations and performance of independent coffee shops in Alaminos City and Sual, Pangasinan, using Porter’s Five Competitive Forces Model. While prior studies have applied this framework in large urban markets, there remains limited empirical evidence on how these forces influence smaller, provincial-based coffee enterprises. The study addresses this gap by investigating owners’ and managers’ perceptions of competitive rivalry, threat of substitutes, threat of new entrants, and the bargaining power of suppliers and customers, and determining how these forces relate to business performance. A descriptive–correlational research design was employed, with data gathered through a validated survey questionnaire administered to 22 purposively selected independent coffee shop respondents in the study area. Spearman’s Rho Correlation was used to measure associations between competitive forces and business practices. Ethical standards were observed by securing informed consent, ensuring voluntary participation, and maintaining confidentiality of responses. Findings revealed strong competitive rivalry driven by the increasing number of cafés and evolving café culture. The bargaining power of customers and threat of substitutes were moderately high, while supplier power exerted a moderate influence on pricing and sourcing. Independent shops employed various strategic responses such as service differentiation, ambiance creation, customer engagement, value-added amenities, and digital marketing. A significant positive correlation was found between competitive forces and business performance, indicating that strategic awareness and adaptive practices strengthen operational resilience and customer retention. The study recommends enhancing product uniqueness, service quality, supplier diversification, and digital engagement to sustain competitiveness and long-term viability.
SPATIAL REASONING AS A PREDICTOR OF SUCCESS IN GEOMETRY AND CALCULUS OF THE BSE MATHEMATICS STUDENTS AT PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY ALAMINOS CITY CAMPUS
Spatial reasoning is widely recognized as an essential cognitive skill that supports mathematical thinking, particularly in Geometry and Calculus. This study aimed to determine whether spatial reasoning is a significant predictor of academic performance in Geometry and Calculus among Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSE) Mathematics students at Pangasinan State University-Alaminos Campus. Specifically, it examined the students’ level of spatial reasoning ability, their academic performance in Modern Geometry and Calculus, and the predictive relationship between spatial reasoning and academic performance. The study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design involving 26 second-year BSE Mathematics students. Data were collected using an adoptive Spatial Reasoning Test and the respondents’ final grades in Modern Geometry and Calculus. Descriptive statistics and simple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that the respondents demonstrated a high level of spatial reasoning ability, a very satisfactory level of academic performance in Modern Geometry, and a satisfactory level of academic performance in Calculus. However, the regression analysis indicated that spatial reasoning was not significant predictor of students’ academic performance in either Modern Geometry or Calculus. The findings suggest that although spatial reasoning is an important cognitive skill, students’ achievement in these mathematics courses may be influenced more by other factors, such as logical reasoning, conceptual understanding, algebraic skills, and problem-solving ability.
PERCEIVED CONTRIBUTIONS OF HUNDRED ISLANDS FESTIVAL TO TOURISM GROWTH IN ALAMINOS CITY, PANGASINAN
Recognizing the growing role of local festivals in promoting sustainable tourism and community development, this study examined the perceived contributions of the Hundred Islands Festival to the tourism growth of Alaminos City. Specifically, the study investigated the festival’s economic, social, cultural, and environmental impacts, as well as the relationship between the profiles of tourism-related business owners and their perceptions of the festival’s contributions. A mixed-method research design was employed using structured questionnaires and face-to-face surveys among 203 respondents from lodging establishments, transportation services, food and beverage businesses, and travel-related sectors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, analysis of variance, and correlation analysis. Findings revealed that the festival significantly contributes to tourism growth in Alaminos City. Economic impact obtained an average weighted mean of 4.23, indicating increased tourist arrivals, higher income, and improved local business sales. Social impact received a weighted mean of 4.26, highlighting employment generation, stakeholder cooperation, and enhanced service quality. Cultural impact garnered a weighted mean of 4.34, demonstrating the festival’s role in promoting cultural preservation, community unity, and social interaction. Environmental impact recorded the highest weighted mean of 4.40, emphasizing increased environmental awareness, proper waste management, and sustainable tourism promotion. Thematic findings identified increased tourist arrivals, business growth, promotion of local products, employment opportunities, and government-led marketing as major benefits of the festival. Significant differences and relationships were also found between respondents’ profiles and their perceptions of the festival’s contributions. Overall, the study concludes that the Hundred Islands Festival serves as a vital driver of tourism development, cultural promotion, community collaboration, and environmental sustainability in Alaminos City.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DSWD AICS PROGRAM’S IEC MATERIALS AS PERCEIVED BY ITS BENEFICIARIES
The Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program is a frontline social protection initiative of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). To ensure service delivery through effective Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, this study examines the effectiveness of the materials utilized in the DSWD AICS Program as perceived by its beneficiaries. The study utilized a descriptive-correlational approach to determine the beneficiaries' level of exposure to IEC materials, their knowledge of the DSWD AICS Program, and the effectiveness of the materials in terms of clarity of message, appropriateness of content, and attractiveness. It further examined the relationship between these variables using a closed-ended scaled survey instrument. The Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) of persuasion, developed by Richard E. Petty and John Cacioppo, was adapted for this study. The ELM guided the analysis of which persuasion route the beneficiaries utilized when processing the IEC materials. These two major routes consist of the central route, involving deep message elaboration, and the peripheral route, which leads to the acceptance or rejection of a message without active scrutiny of the content. The findings suggest that the respondents collectively perceived the DSWD AICS Program IEC materials as effective in terms of clarity of message, appropriateness of content, and attractiveness. These results indicate that the respondents may lean toward the peripheral route, relying on other external cues when assessing the information presented to them about the DSWD AICS Program.
INCLUSIVE CLASSROOM STRATEGIES AND PRACTICES AMONG TEACHERS OF BANI EAST INTEGRATED SCHOOL
The educational landscape has increasingly embraced the principles of inclusivity, recognizing the importance of accommodating diverse learners within the classroom. This study investigated the inclusive classroom strategies employed by 14 elementary teacher respondents at Bani East Integrated School in Bani Pangasinan and their impact on students' development. Through a purposive sampling technique, researchers gathered data on the educators' diverse perspectives on inclusive classroom practices. Moreover, it also aimed to address key questions concerning teacher profiles, learner characteristics, teaching strategies, challenges encountered, and benefits derived from these strategies. Using surveys and qualitative methods a multiple case study approach was used to delve deeper into essential questions surrounding teacher profiles, learner characteristics, and the intricate dynamics of inclusive classrooms. Results showed that most respondents were female and 50% were master's degree graduates and had been teaching for more than 16 years. In addition, the study also revealed that normal learners exhibit exemplary mental capacities, as indicated by mean scores ranging from 3.86 to 4.92. Also, they demonstrate adeptness in understanding instructions, maintaining focus during learning sessions, efficiently managing tasks, showcasing learning progress, and actively engaging socially within the classroom environment. Additionally, it is closely followed by their consistent demonstration of learning progress (4.12), effective task management (3.93), ease in comprehending instructions (3.86), and sustained focus during learning activities (3.86). Based on the results it is recommended that there should be continuous professional and culturally responsive training for inclusive classroom teacher and regular training assessment and assessment for teacher.
Inclusive education, adeptness, classroom, learning sessions, progress