Science laboratory resources and their role in shaping the career decisions of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Students

International Journal of Research Studies in Management
Divine Word College of San Jose Special Issue
2026 Volume 14 Issue 4

Available Online: 23 June 2026

Author/s:

De Guzman, Ma. Fe S.*
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (sanchezmafe42@gmail.com)

Sansano, Gerecka Mae P.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (gereckasansano2000@gmail.com)

Aquino, Rod Keicer O.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (rkeiceraquino@gmail.com)

Galay-Limos, Jenny A.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (jennygalay05@gmail.com)

Abstract:

This study examined the role of science laboratory resources in shaping the career decisions of Grade 12 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students at Divine Word College of San Jose. Specifically, it assessed laboratory resources in terms of equipment availability, accessibility, and frequency of use, and students’ confidence and interest in pursuing STEM careers. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study gathered quantitative data from ninety-eight (98) Senior High School STEM students enrolled during the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026. Data collection was conducted via a researcher-made online questionnaire, and analysis was performed using weighted mean and Pearson correlation. The findings revealed that the frequency of laboratory use, accessibility of resources, and equipment availability were all rated high to very high. Similarly, students demonstrated strong enthusiasm for STEM fields, exceptional confidence in pursuing STEM pathways, and a strong perceived influence of laboratory resources on their professional choices. Furthermore, correlational analysis revealed a significant, moderately positive relationship between science laboratory resources and students’ career decisions. This suggests that enhanced laboratory resources and hands-on learning opportunities directly foster more confident and defined career choices. The study concludes that institutional laboratory resources play a vital role in shaping STEM career trajectories. Consequently, it is recommended that institutions consistently upgrade laboratory facilities and integrate robust experiential and inquiry-based learning activities into the curriculum to further sustain student interest.

Keywords: STEM education, career decisions, laboratory resources, inquiry-based learning, descriptive-correlational

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26523

Cite this article:
De Guzman, M. F. S., Sansano, G. M. P., Aquino, R. K. O., & Galay-Limos, J. A. (2026). Science laboratory resources and their role in shaping the career decisions of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Students. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 14(4), 33-45. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26523

* Corresponding Author