Project RITE Brings LNU to SLSU-TO for Research on Curriculum Alignment

The Leyte Normal University (LNU) Research Team recently visited Southern Leyte State University – Tomas Oppus Campus (SLSU-TO) as part of Project RITE (Research Initiatives in Teacher Education). Spearheaded by the Teacher Education Council (TEC) and the Philippine Normal University (PNU), in collaboration with Leyte Normal University (LNU), is implementing a national research initiative to assess the alignment between the Senior High School (SHS) curriculum and Teacher Education Preparation. The visit to SLSU-TO represents a key component of Project RITE, aiming to gather data and perspectives from faculty members directly involved in implementing the SHS program.

During the visit, the LNU research team conducted a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with Dr. Norla Grace Betarmos, Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Education; Dr. Sybill Krizzia Ledesma, Laboratory High School Principal; program heads; and SHS faculty members. The discussion centered on exploring how current SHS curriculum components support or fall short in preparing students for the Teacher Education program.

Participants were asked to respond to key guide questions focused on four primary areas: curriculum alignment with teacher education, strengths of the SHS program in preparing future educators, existing weaknesses or gaps, and actionable recommendations to improve the curriculum for aspiring teachers. Faculty from STEM and HUMSS strands contributed their insights based on classroom experience. They also completed a survey that captured their demographic profile, educational background, teaching experience, and the SHS strand they currently teach. These inputs are vital in assessing the preparedness of SHS graduates entering the Teacher Education program.

This collaborative research visit to SLSU-TO forms part of a broader effort under Project RITE to enhance teacher education through data-informed curriculum reforms. The information gathered from the FGD and surveys will help inform future policy and program development, ensuring that SHS graduates are well-equipped to succeed in teacher education pathways and meet the demands of the 21st-century classroom.

This visit supported Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education by promoting inclusive, equitable, and relevant education for future educators.