Taban, Joseph Gacusan

College/Position: CAS, URDO
Designation: Assistant Director, University Research and Development Office
Area: Education

Research Engagement:

Publication
  • ► An Assessment of Filipino Public School Teachers' Research Competence: A Basis for an Enhancement Professional Development Programme (2025)

    Abstract: The ability to conduct academic research is essential for teachers to contribute to the body of knowledge and enhance the quality of education. This study assessed the research competence of 440 public school teachers in the First District of the Schools Division of Ilocos Sur during the school year 2022–2023. A mixed-method research design was used to comprehensively analyse their profiles, research competence and challenges encountered. Data were collected using validated questionnaires and interview guides and analysed using frequency, percentage, mean, Pearson correlation, Chi-square test and thematic analysis. Findings indicated that many schools lack adequate research resources. Teachers had few research projects and minimal research awards. Teachers showed a high level of competence based on their knowledge, skills and attitudes but low research productivity. Significant factors related to research competence included age, educational attainment, length of teaching experience, and rank/position. The overwhelming teaching loads and numerous school activities were the major hindrances to conducting research. As a result, the study proposed a research enhancement training programme aimed at improving teachers' research competence. Implementing this programme is expected to nurture a positive school research culture, contributing to improved educational practices and outcomes.

    Keywords: public school teachers; competence; productivity; skills; action research

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 10, SDG 17

    Publication Link
  • ► Enhancing Assessment in a Mathematics General Education Course: The Development of a Standardized Item Bank (2025)

    Abstract: Effective assessment is essential in education to measure students’ achievement and understanding. In higher education, particularly in general education courses like Mathematics in the Modern World (MMW), standardized and reliable assessments ensure that students are evaluated fairly and accurately. This study developed an item bank for the MMW course at the University of Northern Philippines to standardize examinations and enhance assessment quality. By standardizing exams, the study sought to improve assessment reliability and ensure that all students are evaluated under the same criteria. It aimed to determine item validity and analyze item responses using statistical measures, including difficulty index, discrimination index, and reliability index. Employing a quantitative approach with descriptive survey and developmental research designs, the study involved 258 students from the first term of school year (SY) 2022 to 2023, alongside three mathematics experts and three psychometricians for item validation. The primary instrument was an achievement test comprising two-hundred multiple-choice, eighty true/false, and forty short-answer items. Expert validation was followed by student testing to assess reliability. Data analysis led to a refined item bank, confirming high validity and reliability. Item difficulty and discrimination indices guided necessary revisions to optimize assessment effectiveness. The final item bank included 181 multiple-choice, 79 true/false, and 34 short-answer items. The study recommends using validated test formats aligned with evolving curriculum standards and revising low-discriminating or overly easy items to ensure comprehensive student evaluation.

    Keywords: Item Bank, Item Analysis; Item Response Theory, Reliability, Math Proficiency

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 10

    Publication Link
  • ► Knowledge Mapping of Computational Thinking and Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (CT+STEM) (2024)

    Abstract: There are significant limitations in the current study on CT+STEM addressing the gaps noted in the existing literature. The study is driven by the lack of research on underrepresented students in college STEM courses, the inclusion of CT in STEM education at the entry level, and the insufficiency of teacher training programs that concentrate on integrating computational thinking into STEM classrooms. It aims to fill the knowledge gap about how CTs' professional experience influences their attitudes and practices. The study acknowledges the necessity of empirical research to explore the balance between the widespread use of critical thinking and the distinct characteristics of scientific representations, a significant obstacle in educational planning. The research utilizes bibliometric analysis to cover the period from 1978 to 2023, showing a steady yearly growth rate of 7.22% in the CT+STEM sector. The collection consists of 241 documents from 127 scholarly sources, highlighting collaboration trends and worldwide relationships in CT+STEM research. The study highlights important publications, authors, affiliations, and highly cited papers while also recognizing potential bias and the quantitative character of the investigation. The study has important implications for education, industry, and problem-solving in the digital era. The article suggests further research to investigate qualitative aspects, methodologies, and teaching strategies to enhance the development and influence of CT+STEM in the evolving field of education and technology.

    Keywords: Computational ThinkingScopusSTEM

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 10

    Publication Link
  • ► Development of a Worktext in Mathematics in the Modern World (2023)

    Abstract: Learning resources are crucial to boosting students' academic performance. This study aimed to develop and validate a worktext for Mathematics in the Modern World (MMW). Specifically, it sought to determine the availability and adequacy of instructional materials in the said mathematics course; describe the components of the worktext; evaluate the worktext in terms of objectives, content, format, organization, language, and usability; and determine the readability of the worktext. Findings showed a need to develop a worktext in MMW to address the inadequacy of teaching and learning resources in MMW in the university. The worktext in MMW is simple yet rich in content and contains varied activities. It is highly valid and can be used as instructional material in the teaching and learning of MMW. The contents of the worktext are written so that it is clear to the target readers can read it.

    Keywords: Worktext Development, Learning Material, Validation, Mathematics in the Modern World

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 10

    Publication Link
  • ► Contextualization and Localization of Teaching Mathematics in the New Normal (2023)

    Abstract: To understand how contextualization and localization have been applied to mathematics instruction, this study explored the effects of the shift in the educational paradigm brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. This research determined the extent of implementation of contextualization and localization in teaching Mathematics among the Mathematics teachers in the fourteen schools in the El Nido Del Norte and Del Sur Districts in the new normal. Mixed methods, quantitative, and qualitative research designs were employed using a survey questionnaire as the primary data-gathering tool and a semi-structured interview guide. The level of implementation of contextualization and localization in teaching Mathematics, specifically in terms of assessment tools and instructional materials, was found to be High. It was found that creating localized materials was challenging among teaching teachers because it required translating materials into local languages, especially since there are multiple languages spoken in the area. However, teachers receive support from administrators, colleagues, parents, and the community to overcome challenges. Based on these findings, recommendations made in the study included regular professional development, building a community of practice, research and evaluation, policy and technology support, involving parents/local community, and monitoring and feedback.

    Keywords: Contextualization, localization, teaching Mathematics, adversities, coping mechanisms

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 10, SDG 11

    Publication Link
  • ► Predicting Countries with Low and High Robbery Rates Using Discriminant Analysis (2023)

    Abstract: Crime such as robbery has been identified as one of the socioeconomic problems across the world, which adverse social, economic, and family conditions have caused. Using discriminant analysis, this study proposed a model for classifying and predicting countries with low and high robbery rates. Robbery rates in 2018 of 42 countries across the world have been extracted from United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as the dependent variable. Meanwhile, the independent variables included the unemployment rate, average household size, and poverty index. The study originally classified 32 countries with low and 10 with high robbery rates. Pretesting was employed, and the results showed that all the assumptions for discriminant analysis were fulfilled. Using standardized beta and Wilk's Lambda, the average household size is the best predictor variable, while the unemployment rate is the least predictor variable. The overall prediction function model is significant. The classification results by discriminant analysis algorithm for groups with low and high robbery rates show that the proposed model correctly predicts 78.6% of the robbery rates of countries based on the three characteristics, such as their unemployment rate, average household size, and poverty index

    Keywords: Robbery rates, discriminant analysis, unemployment rate, average household size, poverty index

    SDG: SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 10, SDG 16

    Publication Link
  • ► Geometric Designs of Ilocano Wood Carvings (2022)

    Abstract: Research on the promotion of wooden furniture objects is of historical and cultural value. This study explored the geometric designs of Ilocano wood carvings. The wood carvings were investigated on furniture products found in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur. Based on the findings, the wood carvings show fundamental geometric designs such as symmetry, parallelism, transformation, and proportionality. The concept of symmetry is mostly found in all furniture products like tables, doors, and chairs. The carving designs of doors made use of the concept of parallelism. On the other hand, the concept of transformation is used in carving designs on chairs to come up with congruent designs, and in the transformation of the design of the door of a cabinet. Furthermore, the carving of a miniature mirror and display products utilized the concept of proportionality. Generally, there is a combination of these geometric designs that make the products more attractive.

    Keywords: ethnomathematics, mathematical patterns, math-inspired products, Ilocano culture

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 11, SDG 12

    Publication Link
  • ► Teaching Mathematics in a Moodle-Based Learning Environment (2021)

    Abstract: Development of technology in education includes eLearning approaches such as the use of a Learning Management System (LMS). The study focused on the processes undertaken to determine the usability of MOODLE in the teaching and learning of different mathematics courses in a university. Specifically, this aimed to determine the level of preparedness of teachers; the level of validity of the modules in mathematics as resource materials, the level of performance of the students in mathematics courses with the use of MOODLE, the level of usability of MOODLE, and the challenges encountered by the students and teachers in their use of MOODLE. This study made use of descriptive and developmental methods of research. The respondents of the study involved 6 mathematics teachers and 135 students who used MOODLE in the following mathematics courses, namely: Fundamentals of Statistics A, Fundamentals of Statistics B, Basic Statistics, Probability and Statistics, Linear Algebra, and Advanced Calculus. Findings of the study revealed that the teachers were not prepared to integrate technology for instruction which implied their lack of technology skills. The modules obtained high validity ratings which indicate their acceptability as inputs in the LMS. The students have satisfactory performance in their use of MOODLE as also manifested by the high usability of MOODLE as evaluated by both students and teachers. However, poor or lack of internet connection was the foremost challenge in using the LMS. Based on the findings of the study, a decision model was developed that may serve as a basis for teaching mathematics courses in a MOODLE-based learning environment.

    Keywords: learning management system, mathematics instruction, MOODLE, usability

    SDG: SDG 3, SDG 4, SDG 9, SDG 10

    Publication Link
  • ► A Cross-Sectional Study of Students' Learning Progression in Algebra (2021)

    Abstract: This study explored the learning progression in Algebra of students from a cohort perspective and individual perspective. Utilizing the cross-sectional and longitudinal research methods and employing the Rasch measurement modeling, the progress in the Algebraic performance of the 592 students (Grade 8, Grade 9 and Grade 10) in a school division in the Philippines was examined four times in around one academic year. Analyses revealed that the students only have a low level of performance in Algebra. Through the Rasch analysis, there was a progress in students' Algebraic performance from a cross-sectional perspective. Their ability estimates increased with the grade level. The performance of the students also developed from the individuals' perspective. More students displayed progress while some retrogressed in their performance in the algebraic test. Moreover, from an individual perspective, the algebraic students' performance developed over the period in all grade levels. There is also an increase in the mastery of the students in the different tasks in the test. The answers of the students are dependent on their ability, as predicted from the Rasch model.

    Keywords: Algebra, Cross-Sectional, Learning Progression, Rasch Analysis

    SDG: SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 10

    Publication Link
    • On-going
    • Gender Equality of Gaming: A Bibliometric Analysis of Representation, Workforce Dynamics, and Cultural Implications (2025), SDG 5, 9 – (E-25-14)
    • Exploring the Artificial Intelligence Research in Public Health: Trends, Innovations, and Global Health Outcomes (2025), SDG 3, 9 – (E-25-17)
    • Assessing the Readiness of UNP for QS Star University Ratings (2025), SDG 4, 17 – (E-25-19)
    • Employability and Productivity of the Graduates of the Open University (2023), SDG 4, 8 – (E-23-10)
    • Development of Student’s Guide in Writing Thesis/Dissertation (2022), SDG 4 – (E-22-23 c31)
    • Development and Validation of a Worktext in Modern Geometry (2022), SDG 4 – (E-22-23-c40)
    Awards
    • International
      • Best Paper Nominee (Education Category), Asian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research Conference (International), Educators and Researchers’ Association in the Asian Region (ERAAR), Inc., December 14-15, 2018
    • Local
      • Nominee, Search for Faculty Member of the Year (2021), University of Northern Philippines, October 18, 2021
      • Bronze Medalist, Super Sudoku Super Challenge (Regional), Mathematics Trainers Guild of the Philipppines, October 28, 2019
      • Best Research Presentation (Education Category), 2015 UNP Research Colloquium, University of Northern Philippines, November 13, 2015
    Presentation
    • Development of an Item Bank for Mathematics in the Modern World (2025), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10
    • An Assessment of Filipino Public School Teachers’ Research Competence: A Basis for an Enhancement Professional Development Program (2025), SDG 4, 8, 10, 17
    • Feasibility of Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education Program in University of Northern Philippines (2025), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10
    • Development of an Item Bank for Mathematics in the Modern World (2024), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10
    • Research Competence of Public School Teachers: Basis for Enhancement Training Program (2024), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10
    Citations
    IP Registration
    • Worktext in Mathematics in the Modern World (2022), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10 – (Cert No. 2022-02132-A dated 04-Aug-22)
    • Module in Linear Algebra (2020), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10 – (Cert No. cA2020-168 dated 24-Sep-20)
    • Module in Number Theory (2020), SDG 4, 8, 9, 10 – (Cert No. cA2020-169 dated 24-Sep-20)
    Others (Peer Review, Research Consultancy)

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