"Empowering Classrooms: Evaluating Resources for Effective Teaching and Learning" — Highlights how evaluation work directly supports better classroom instruction.

Editor's Notes

• #1: Good [morning/afternoon], esteemed panelists, [insert names of deans, advisers, and advisory committee members]. I am Welyn Grace E. Cocoy, and I am here with my equally dedicated team members, Nivelinda, Ronamie, Queendelyn and Ferlyn Joy, and we are excited to present our narrative report on the Industry Immersion at Terranova Garden titled Bridging Classroom Learning and Real-World Experience. This journey has been more than just a program—it has been a transformative experience that allowed us to apply our academic knowledge in a dynamic, real-world setting. Over the course of 1,296 hours, we immersed ourselves in the hospitality, events management, and business operations at Terranova Garden, gaining invaluable skills, insights, and confidence that have prepared us for the challenges of the professional world. Today, we are honored to share our story, the lessons we’ve learned, and the impact this immersion has had on our growth as future professionals. Thank you for this opportunity to present our journey.
• #2: As they say, education isn’t just about textbooks and lectures—it’s so much more than that. That’s where work immersion comes in. It’s like a bridge that connects what we learn in the classroom to what actually happens in the real world. Through hands-on experience, we get to build a strong work ethic, learn how to solve problems on the spot, and gain the confidence to handle professional challenges. And the best part? It’s all in line with CHED’s (2024) vision of preparing us to be work-ready and future-proof professionals.
• #3: Work immersion is defined as [read the definition]. This program is not just a requirement—it is a critical step in preparing students for the realities of the professional world. It transforms theoretical knowledge into practical expertise, equipping us with the skills, mindset, and confidence needed to excel in our chosen fields. Today, I’ll take you through how this transformative journey unfolded for us at Terranova Garden and the lasting impact it has had on our growth as future professionals.
• #4: Work immersion plays a critical role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practices. It’s not just about learning—it’s about doing. And through our journey at Terranova Garden, we experienced firsthand how this program allows students to: Apply Theoretical Knowledge: In the classroom, we learned about food safety and sanitation, but it was during our immersion that we saw how these principles are applied in a real kitchen. For example, we had to ensure that every utensil was properly sanitized and that food was stored at the right temperatures to meet industry standards. Develop Workplace Skills: Through hands-on tasks, we gained technical skills like cooking, food preparation, and plating. But beyond that, we also developed soft skills. For instance, during peak hours at Terranova Garden, we had to communicate effectively with the kitchen staff and work as a team to ensure orders were delivered on time. These experiences taught us the importance of collaboration and adaptability. Understand Industry Expectations: Immersion exposed us to the fast-paced and demanding environment of the hospitality industry. We learned the value of professionalism, punctuality, and attention to detail. For example, during events, we had to ensure that every table was set perfectly and that guests received prompt and courteous service. Build Confidence: Tackling real-world challenges, like handling customer complaints or managing multiple tasks during a busy event, helped us grow more confident in our abilities. One memorable moment was when we successfully managed a wedding reception, ensuring that every detail—from food service to table arrangements—was executed flawlessly. These experiences showed us that we are capable of handling professional responsibilities with competence and poise. These experiences didn’t just teach us skills—they transformed us into more confident and capable individuals.
• #5: David Kolb’s experiential learning theory emphasizes the importance of learning through direct experience and active participation. As cited in our manuscript: ‘Experiential learning is the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, and attitudes through direct experience and reflection, enabling individuals to apply what they have learned in real-world contexts.’ This quote perfectly encapsulates our work immersion journey at Terranova Garden. It wasn’t just about observing or listening—it was about doing. For example, when we were tasked with preparing and plating dishes, we didn’t just follow instructions; we reflected on what worked and what didn’t, improving our techniques with each attempt. This cycle of action and reflection is what made our learning so meaningful and impactful. It’s how we transformed theoretical knowledge into practical expertise, preparing us for the challenges of the professional world.
• #6: The objectives of our industry immersion were clear and purposeful. At its core, the program aimed to enhance our academic knowledge through real-world experience and prepare us for our future careers. But beyond the general goal, we had specific objectives that guided our journey at Terranova Garden: Perform Basic Cooking Tasks: From chopping vegetables to assembling dishes, we got hands-on experience in the kitchen. For example, during a busy event, we had to prepare appetizers under time pressure, which taught us efficiency and precision. Apply Food Handling and Sanitation Practices: We learned the importance of hygiene and safety in food preparation. One memorable moment was when we had to ensure all utensils were properly sanitized before a large wedding reception—this reinforced how critical these practices are in the industry. Execute Food Service Tasks: Whether it was setting tables, plating dishes, or bussing tables, we gained a comprehensive understanding of food service operations. For instance, during a corporate event, we had to coordinate table settings for over 100 guests, ensuring everything was perfect down to the smallest detail. Develop Soft Skills: Beyond technical skills, we honed our communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. A great example was when we had to resolve a last-minute menu change for a guest with dietary restrictions. It required quick thinking, collaboration with the kitchen staff, and clear communication with the guest to ensure their satisfaction.
• #7: Six months, 1,296 hours—that’s how long we spent at Terranova Garden in New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan. It wasn’t just a place; it was where we learned that life, like a garden, requires patience, hard work, and a lot of heart. Terranova wasn’t just a venue; it was our second home, where we grew not just as students but as individuals ready to bloom in the real world. And to our adviser, Mrs. Mercy I. Cuare, you were more than a supervisor—you were our compass. You guided us through the chaos, reminded us of our purpose, and showed us that even in the busiest events, there’s always room for growth. You taught us that success isn’t just about finishing tasks; it’s about learning from every mistake and celebrating every small victory. So to speak, Terranova Gardens, were forever thankful because you have been the soil where we planted our dreams. And Ma’am Mercy, thank you for being the sunlight that helped us grow. This immersion wasn’t just a requirement—it was a chapter of our lives we’ll never forget.
• #8: Before the actual implementation of the industry immersion, two key pre-implementation strategies were carried out to ensure a smooth and organized start: First, an orientation session was conducted in July 2024 at the Libacao COVID Center. This session was attended by the Dean, Advisory Committee, parents, and students, and it served as a platform to discuss the program guidelines, objectives, and expectations. This ensured that everyone involved was on the same page and fully prepared for the journey ahead. Second, a courtesy call was made to Terranova Garden on August 1, 2024. During this visit, the establishment owner provided an overview of company rules, roles, and responsibilities, giving us a clear understanding of what to expect and how to contribute effectively. These pre-implementation steps laid a strong foundation for the success of our immersion program.
• #9: During our industry immersion at Terranova Garden, we were actively involved in a wide range of tasks that gave us a comprehensive understanding of hospitality and food service operations. These tasks included: Cooking: We assisted in kitchen operations, from chopping ingredients to assembling dishes, learning the importance of precision and teamwork. Taking Orders: We interacted directly with customers, ensuring their satisfaction through clear communication and attentive service. Table Setting: We prepared tables for events and daily dining services, paying close attention to detail and presentation. Food Preparation: We portioned ingredients and garnished dishes, ensuring every meal was ready for efficient and timely service. Food Serving: We delivered meals promptly and courteously, adhering to proper serving techniques to enhance the dining experience. Plating and Garnish Making: We learned the art of food presentation, making dishes visually appealing and memorable for guests. Bussing and Dishwashing: We maintained cleanliness and efficiency, ensuring that the dining area and kitchen were always ready for the next service. Bartending: We prepared and served non-alcoholic beverages, adding a touch of creativity to our tasks. Other Activities: We also took part in general cleaning and housekeeping, ensuring that the entire establishment remained spotless and welcoming. These tasks were more than just responsibilities—they were opportunities for growth. Each day brought new challenges, but also new lessons. We learned the value of teamwork, the importance of attention to detail, and the satisfaction of seeing a job well done. There were moments of pressure, especially during peak hours, but those moments taught us resilience and adaptability.
• #10: While our immersion at Terranova Garden was incredibly rewarding, it was not without its challenges. These obstacles tested our resilience and taught us valuable lessons. Let me share some of the key challenges we faced: Lack of Financial Support: Some of us struggled with transportation and daily expenses, especially those living far from the immersion site. For example, one of our teammates had to wake up as early as 4 AM just to make it to Terranova on time. This challenge taught us the importance of resourcefulness and time management. Misunderstandings and Conflicts: There were moments when miscommunication led to disagreements among students and staff. For instance, during a busy event, unclear instructions caused delays in food service. However, we learned to address these issues by asking for clarification and maintaining open communication. Slow Progress in Skill Improvement: Mastering skills like knife techniques and food plating took time. I remember struggling to slice vegetables evenly during my first week, but with consistent practice and guidance from the kitchen staff, I eventually improved. Limited Knowledge in Food Preparation: Mistakes were inevitable, especially when we were still learning. One time, I accidentally used the wrong ingredient for a dish, which led to food waste. This experience taught me to double-check recipes and ask for help when unsure. Lack of Teamwork During Peak Hours: Coordinating tasks during busy events was challenging. There was an instance when we fell behind on table setups because we weren’t communicating effectively. This taught us the importance of teamwork and clear delegation of tasks. Accidental Breakage of Utensils: Handling delicate tableware was nerve-wracking at first. I remember dropping a glass during a wedding reception, which was embarrassing. But it reminded me to handle utensils with care and focus on the task at hand.
• #11: Facing challenges was inevitable, but what truly mattered was how we addressed them. Here are the solutions we implemented to overcome the obstacles during our immersion: Financial Support: Terranova Garden provided stipends, especially during events, to help us manage transportation and daily expenses. For example, the stipend I received during a wedding reception helped cover my travel costs, allowing me to focus fully on my tasks. Improved Communication: To address misunderstandings, we made it a point to clarify roles and responsibilities at the start of each shift. During one event, we held a quick team huddle to assign tasks, which significantly improved our coordination and efficiency. Hands-On Training: Our mentors conducted skill demonstrations to help us improve. I remember struggling with knife techniques until one of the chefs took the time to show me the proper way to hold and slice ingredients. That hands-on guidance made all the difference. Guided Food Preparation: Experienced staff guided us through food preparation techniques to minimize errors. For instance, when I was unsure about portion sizes for a dish, a senior staff member walked me through the process, ensuring I got it right. Team-Building Exercises: To strengthen teamwork, we participated in group activities that encouraged collaboration. During a particularly busy day, we divided tasks among ourselves and supported each other, which helped us manage the workload effectively. Careful Handling: To prevent breakage, we were reminded to handle utensils with care. I remember being extra cautious after accidentally breaking a glass, and that mindfulness helped me avoid similar mistakes in the future.
• #12: The outcomes of our industry immersion were both rewarding and transformative. Here’s a quick overview: Results: We enhanced our technical and soft skills, improved our customer service and problem-solving abilities, and gained the confidence to handle real-world challenges. Observations: Terranova Garden provided a dynamic and professional learning environment. We learned the importance of teamwork, time management, and customer satisfaction. We also gained valuable insights into operational challenges, such as managing bulk orders and peak hours, which prepared us for the demands of the industry.
• #13: In conclusion, work immersion bridges the gap between theory and practice. It enhances our technical expertise, strengthens our work ethic, and develops essential soft skills. Most importantly, it prepares us not just for industry employment, but for long-term success in our chosen careers. This experience has been a cornerstone of our growth, and we’re ready to take these lessons forward into the future.
• #14: Based on our experience, here are some recommendations to enhance future industry immersion programs: Provide Financial Support: Offering stipends or sponsorships can help students manage transportation and daily expenses. Establish Clear Communication: Clear guidelines and conflict resolution strategies can prevent misunderstandings and improve teamwork. Conduct Skill Development Workshops: Hands-on training before immersion can help students master essential skills more quickly. Enhance Food Preparation Training: Structured training sessions can minimize errors and build confidence in food handling. Promote Teamwork: Structured team-building activities can improve coordination, especially during peak hours. Train in Proper Equipment Handling: Teaching students how to handle tools and utensils carefully can prevent breakage and ensure efficiency.
• #18: Before the actual implementation of the industry immersion, two key pre-implementation strategies were carried out to ensure a smooth and organized start: First, an orientation session was conducted in July 2024 at the Libacao COVID Center. This session was attended by the Dean, Advisory Committee, parents, and students, and it served as a platform to discuss the program guidelines, objectives, and expectations. This ensured that everyone involved was on the same page and fully prepared for the journey ahead. Second, a courtesy call was made to Terranova Garden on August 1, 2024. During this visit, the establishment owner provided an overview of company rules, roles, and responsibilities, giving us a clear understanding of what to expect and how to contribute effectively. These pre-implementation steps laid a strong foundation for the success of our immersion program.
• #19: Before the actual implementation of the industry immersion, two key pre-implementation strategies were carried out to ensure a smooth and organized start: First, an orientation session was conducted in July 2024 at the Libacao COVID Center. This session was attended by the Dean, Advisory Committee, parents, and students, and it served as a platform to discuss the program guidelines, objectives, and expectations. This ensured that everyone involved was on the same page and fully prepared for the journey ahead. Second, a courtesy call was made to Terranova Garden on August 1, 2024. During this visit, the establishment owner provided an overview of company rules, roles, and responsibilities, giving us a clear understanding of what to expect and how to contribute effectively. These pre-implementation steps laid a strong foundation for the success of our immersion program.
• #20: Before the actual implementation of the industry immersion, two key pre-implementation strategies were carried out to ensure a smooth and organized start: First, an orientation session was conducted in July 2024 at the Libacao COVID Center. This session was attended by the Dean, Advisory Committee, parents, and students, and it served as a platform to discuss the program guidelines, objectives, and expectations. This ensured that everyone involved was on the same page and fully prepared for the journey ahead. Second, a courtesy call was made to Terranova Garden on August 1, 2024. During this visit, the establishment owner provided an overview of company rules, roles, and responsibilities, giving us a clear understanding of what to expect and how to contribute effectively. These pre-implementation steps laid a strong foundation for the success of our immersion program.
• #21: Before the actual implementation of the industry immersion, two key pre-implementation strategies were carried out to ensure a smooth and organized start: First, an orientation session was conducted in July 2024 at the Libacao COVID Center. This session was attended by the Dean, Advisory Committee, parents, and students, and it served as a platform to discuss the program guidelines, objectives, and expectations. This ensured that everyone involved was on the same page and fully prepared for the journey ahead. Second, a courtesy call was made to Terranova Garden on August 1, 2024. During this visit, the establishment owner provided an overview of company rules, roles, and responsibilities, giving us a clear understanding of what to expect and how to contribute effectively. These pre-implementation steps laid a strong foundation for the success of our immersion program.
• #22: Before the actual implementation of the industry immersion, two key pre-implementation strategies were carried out to ensure a smooth and organized start: First, an orientation session was conducted in July 2024 at the Libacao COVID Center. This session was attended by the Dean, Advisory Committee, parents, and students, and it served as a platform to discuss the program guidelines, objectives, and expectations. This ensured that everyone involved was on the same page and fully prepared for the journey ahead. Second, a courtesy call was made to Terranova Garden on August 1, 2024. During this visit, the establishment owner provided an overview of company rules, roles, and responsibilities, giving us a clear understanding of what to expect and how to contribute effectively. These pre-implementation steps laid a strong foundation for the success of our immersion program.
• #23: Work immersion is more than a program—it is a transformative journey that turns students into professionals. By immersing ourselves in real-world challenges at Terranova Garden, we bridged the gap between academic theory and industry practice. We didn’t just gain technical skills; we developed resilience, adaptability, and the confidence to succeed in the professional world. As Kolb (2020) reminds us, true learning happens when experience meets reflection. Every task we performed, every challenge we overcame, and every lesson we learned shaped us into individuals ready to lead and innovate in our fields. This immersion wasn’t just about completing hours—it was about growing into the professionals we aspire to be.
• #24: As we conclude, let’s remember that this immersion is not the end—it’s the foundation for what comes next. Let’s take the skills, lessons, and confidence we’ve gained and use them to make a difference in our industries. The future is ours to shape, and it starts with the steps we take today. Let’s go out there and show the world what we’re capable of. Thank you for listening and we are now ready for your question.