2025 IJRSE – Volume 14 Issue 6
Available Online: 1 April 2025
Author/s:
Escalona, Engelbert
Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College-Main, Philippines (escalona.ep@gmail.com)
Gundran, Tricia*
Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College-Main, Philippines (gundrantrix.21@gmail.com)
Abstract:
This study, titled “Experience is the Best Teacher: Experiential Courses from the View of Education Graduates,” explores the impact of experiential learning courses (ELC) on teacher preparedness and pedagogical competence among the Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) graduates from Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College. Using a qualitative research design, the study interviewed seven participants who had graduated between 2019 and 2023 and are currently employed as professional teachers. Findings reveal that experiential courses serve as essential preparatory phases, equipping future educators with practical skills and classroom management strategies. Participants identified these courses as effective and significant training grounds, providing insights and expectations into real-world teaching scenarios and enhancing preparedness for professional responsibilities despite challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic’s disruption, reflective practices, and the development of pedagogical competence. Additionally, participants recommended developments to the said courses, including mentoring, in-campus internships, and the like, to further refine the learning experiences. These recommendations underscore the significance of continuous improvement in teacher education programs to meet evolving professional demands in this 21st century and the needs for globalization. The study concludes that experiential courses significantly contribute to teacher preparation, emphasizing the need for enriched and well-implemented learning opportunities. Future research is highly encouraged to extend this exploration across other teacher education programs and to investigate the long-term impact of ELC on career achievement.
Keywords: field study, experiential learning, BSEd graduates, teaching profession, teacher education
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2025.25036
Cite this article:
Escalona, E., & Gundran, T. (2025). Experience is the best teacher: Experiential courses from the view of education graduates. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 14(6), 155-161. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2025.25036
* Corresponding Author