2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 20
Available Online: 28 August 2026
Author/s:
Almocera, Chris
Holy Angel University, Philippines (calmocera@hau.edu.ph)
Cabrera, Raymond A.*
Holy Angel University, Philippines (racabrera@hau.edu.ph)
Camiling, Timothy James S.
Holy Angel University, Philippines (tjcamiling@hau.edu.ph)
Napalit, Arcely P.
Holy Angel University, Philippines (anapalit@hau.edu.ph)
Abstract:
Community extension programs serve as an important avenue for promoting community engagement, experiential learning, and social responsibility among students. This study examined the perceptions of graduating undergraduate students regarding community extension programs implemented as part of their On-the-Job Training (OJT) requirements. A mixed-methods descriptive research design was employed involving 118 graduating students from Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Entertainment and Multimedia Computing, Network Administration, and Web Development programs. Data was collected through an online evaluation questionnaire consisting of quantitative ratings and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were analyzed through thematic analysis. Findings revealed that students generally evaluated the community extension activities positively in terms of activity quality, fulfillment of expectations, learning enhancement, and perceived benefits to beneficiaries. Analysis of students’ reflections identified several recurring themes, including the development of empathy and social responsibility, appreciation of farmers and community workers, knowledge sharing, women’s empowerment, and the importance of preserving academic resources through digital archiving. Students also reported gains in leadership, communication, teamwork, and community awareness. Despite the positive experiences, participants recommended improvements in planning, coordination, communication, and logistical arrangements to enhance future extension initiatives. The findings suggest that community extension programs provide meaningful learning experiences that complement academic training while fostering civic engagement and personal development among graduating computing students. Continuous evaluation of extension activities is recommended to ensure their relevance, effectiveness, and responsiveness to the needs of both students and community beneficiaries.
Keywords: community extension, service-learning, experiential learning, community engagement, student perceptions
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26392
Cite this article:
Almocera, C., Cabrera, R. A., Camiling, T. J. S., & Napalit, A. P. (2026). Learning through service: Perceptions of undergraduate computing students on community extension programs. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(20), 87-96. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26392
* Corresponding Author