The Impact of On-The-Job Training Programs on Skills Development

Among Fourth-Year BSAMT Students at MATS College of Technology

______________________

A Research Paper Presented to the

Faculty College of Aviation Education

MATS College of Technology

Davao City

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In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the subject

Res 1 - Research Methods with Research Output

By
Evan Reynor Flores

Keinneth Ralp Jorolan

Marc Alfred Laroco

December 2024

CHAPTER 1

The Problem and Review of Related Literature

INTRODUCTION

In today’s rapidly evolving aviation industry, the significance of practical

skills and hands-on experience is increasingly paramount, particularly in

specialized fields such as Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Maintenance

Technology (BSAMT). As the complexity of aircraft systems grows, the need

for well-trained professionals who can apply their theoretical knowledge in

real-world settings becomes critical. On-the-job training programs have

emerged as essential avenues for facilitating this transition, providing students

with invaluable opportunities to develop their skills in practical environments.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of OJT in providing hands-on

experiences that lead to the mastery of essential technical competencies in

the aviation industry. (Kumar, 2020).

The global aviation industry faces significant challenges that impact on-

the-job training (OJT) programs, particularly in skills development for aircraft

maintenance. A study highlights the industry's struggle to balance sustainable

practices with the need for skilled technicians. As technology rapidly evolves,
emphasizes that training programs must continuously adapt to ensure that

maintenance personnel acquire the latest skills and knowledge necessary for

compliance with new regulations and technological advancements. This

global context underlines the necessity of effective OJT in preparing

graduates for the industry's future (IATA 2021).

In Manila, the effectiveness of OJT programs for students in Bachelor

of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Technology is significantly affected by a

high student-to-trainer ratio. This overcrowding restricts personalized

attention, which is crucial for developing specialized skills. Additionally, notes

that outdated facilities and limited access to modern maintenance equipment

hinder students’ ability to gain hands-on experience. These challenges impact

graduates’ readiness for the competitive job market, underscoring the

importance of addressing these issues to enhance skills development (Cruz,

R. 2020).

Davao faces unique challenges in its aviation training programs,

particularly related to resource limitations. Discusses how inadequate access

to essential technology and equipment restricts comprehensive training

opportunities for students in the Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Maintenance

Technology program. Furthermore, points out that a lack of industry

partnerships inhibits students from gaining real-world experience, which is

vital for their skills development. Addressing these challenges is essential to

ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands and

expectations (Alonzo, J. 2023).

The challenges observed in current on-the-job training (OJT) programs

necessitate an investigation into their impact on skills development among

4th-year BSAMT students at MATS College of Technology. This study aims to

identify gaps and inform targeted interventions, ultimately enhancing

education quality and better preparing graduates for the aviation industry's

demands.

Review of Related Literature

The review of the literature in this study provided a thorough and in-

depth elaboration for clearer understanding on the topic. Furthermore,

definition of terms and its discussion lifted from different sources such as

books, newspaper, reliable websites, journals and magazines.

Collaborative Workspace

Collaborative workspaces are essential for enhancing teamwork and

communication in technical education fields, such as aircraft maintenance.

The theory of shared learning, as proposed by Hakkarainen et al. (2016),

emphasizes that collaborative environments foster innovation, which is critical

for the development of practical skills. Their research indicates that when

students engage in collaborative tasks, they benefit from collective problem-

solving and diverse perspectives, which significantly enrich their learning

experiences. In the context of aircraft maintenance, students encounter

complex systems that necessitate not only individual expertise but also the

ability to collaborate effectively with peers. Collaborative workspaces facilitate

discussions and interactions that empower learners to tackle real-world

problems, preparing them for the challenges they will face in the industry.

Furthermore, these environments encourage peer feedback, which is vital for

refining skills and promoting a deeper understanding of technical concepts. By

fostering an atmosphere of cooperation and shared responsibility,

collaborative workspaces help students develop essential teamwork skills,

enhancing their ability to work effectively in team-based settings, which are

common in the aviation industry.

Building on Hwang et al. (2019) social constructivist theory,

underscores the significance of collaboration in enhancing cognitive

engagement. They assert that students working in supportive, collaborative

settings are more likely to co-construct knowledge, which deepens their

understanding of technical subjects. This collaborative approach is particularly

beneficial for aircraft maintenance students, as the ability to communicate and

work together is crucial for success in the field. As students learn to navigate

group dynamics and leverage collective intelligence, they become more adept

at handling complex maintenance tasks. Additionally, the social environment

fosters a sense of community among learners, enhancing motivation and

retention. Overall, integrating collaborative workspaces into training programs

not only improves technical skills but also cultivates essential interpersonal

competencies that contribute to students' future success in the aviation

industry.

Research by Ranjan and Read (2016) further supports the idea that

collaborative spaces enhance innovation and productivity. Their findings

suggest that diverse teams produce more creative solutions than individuals
working alone, especially in environments where problem-solving is key. In

aircraft maintenance, where innovative approaches can lead to improved

safety and efficiency, fostering a collaborative atmosphere is imperative. By

encouraging teamwork in on-the-job training, educational programs can

cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. This not

only prepares them for the aviation industry's demands but also equips them

to adapt to its rapidly changing nature. Therefore, the integration of

collaborative workspaces into training curricula is essential for developing

both technical skills and the interpersonal competencies necessary for career

advancement in aviation.

Skills Acquisition

Skills acquisition is a cornerstone of education, particularly in technical

disciplines like aircraft maintenance. The experiential learning theory

articulated by Kolb (2014) continues to provide a foundational understanding

of how students develop practical skills. Kolb emphasizes the importance of

learning through experience followed by reflection, which enhances retention

and application. Recent adaptations of this framework, such as those by

Beers et al. (2018), highlight the significance of hands-on experiences in skill

development. Their research indicates that when students engage directly

with equipment and processes during on-the-job training, they are more likely

to internalize complex concepts. This experiential approach not only fosters

technical proficiency but also encourages critical thinking, as students learn to

troubleshoot and solve problems in real-time situations, preparing them for the

demands of their future careers.

Furthermore, the competency-based education (CBE) model has

gained prominence as an effective framework for skills acquisition. According

to Kearns (2017), CBE focuses on aligning educational outcomes with

industry needs, ensuring that students develop specific competencies

required in the workforce. For aircraft maintenance students, this alignment is

crucial, as training programs must emphasize the skills that are most relevant

to their future roles. By tailoring instruction to meet industry standards,

educational institutions can enhance students' skill acquisition and provide

them with a competitive edge. This targeted approach not only prepares

students for immediate employment but also lays the groundwork for lifelong

learning and professional development, as they continue to adapt to evolving

industry demands.

Additionally, the theory of deliberate practice, as detailed by Ericsson et

al. (2018), underscores the importance of structured, focused practice in

mastering complex skills. Their research indicates that individuals who

engage in deliberate practice—characterized by targeted, repetitive efforts—

tend to achieve higher levels of expertise. In the context of aircraft

maintenance, where precision and attention to detail are paramount,

incorporating deliberate practice into training programs is essential. This focus

on continuous skill refinement encourages a mindset of improvement, which is

vital for success in any technical field. Ultimately, the combination of

experiential learning, competency-based education, and deliberate practice

creates a comprehensive framework for effective skills acquisition, ensuring

that students are not only equipped with technical abilities but also the

confidence to excel in their future careers.

Knowledge Retention

Knowledge retention is vital for ensuring that students can effectively

apply their skills over the long term, particularly in complex fields like aircraft

maintenance. Sweller's cognitive load theory (2014) has been foundational in

understanding the mechanisms behind effective learning, and recent studies

by Chen and Wu (2019) build upon this theory by illustrating how instructional

design can significantly enhance retention outcomes. They argue that

minimizing cognitive load enables learners to focus on essential information,

leading to improved understanding and longer retention. In on-the-job training

for aircraft maintenance, structuring content and experiences to reduce

extraneous cognitive load is crucial. For instance, breaking down intricate

procedures into smaller, manageable segments allows students to internalize

critical information more effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-

world applications in their careers.

Research conducted by Roediger and Butler (2018) further

emphasizes the importance of active retrieval practices in enhancing long-

term knowledge retention. Their findings suggest that regular engagement in

active recall activities—such as quizzes, hands-on demonstrations, and peer

discussions—can significantly solidify understanding and aid students in

retaining key information. In the context of aircraft maintenance training,

integrating these active learning practices can reinforce students' knowledge,

enabling them to apply what they've learned with confidence. This

engagement not only deepens comprehension but also encourages students

to develop a habit of continuous self-assessment, which is crucial for ongoing

skill development and professional competence.

Additionally, Bandura's social learning theory (2016) remains relevant,

as recent work by Gu et al. (2020) supports the notion that observational

learning can significantly enhance knowledge retention. Their research

indicates that students who observe skilled technicians performing tasks are

better equipped to remember and replicate those skills in practice. By

incorporating opportunities for observation and mentorship into on-the-job

training programs, educational institutions can create a dynamic learning

environment that allows students to solidify their knowledge and develop the

competencies necessary for successful careers in aircraft maintenance. This

combination of observational learning, hands-on practice, and collaborative

efforts establishes a robust framework for knowledge retention, ultimately

equipping students with the skills they need to excel in the aviation industry.

Theoretical Framework

The study anchored to the following theories, models and concepts

grounded its assumptions.

The first theory relevant to skills acquisition in technical education is

developed according to David Kolb (2014). This experiential learning theory

posits that learning is a cyclical process involving four stages: concrete

experiences, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active

experimentation. In the context of on-the-job training (OJT) for aircraft

maintenance, students engage in hands-on activities that enable them to

apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. This experiential

approach fosters a deeper understanding and mastery of skills, as students

have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and refine their techniques

based on practical feedback. Kolb’s framework emphasizes the importance of

active engagement and reflection, which are crucial for effective learning in

technical fields such as aviation maintenance. By moving through the cycle of

experiencing, reflecting, conceptualizing, and experimenting, students not

only build their technical competencies but also develop critical thinking and

problem-solving abilities essential for their future careers. This alignment of

theoretical concepts with practical application ensures that students are well-

prepared to meet the demands of the aviation industry, effectively bridging the

gap between classroom learning and real-world challenges.

Supporting this framework, McCarthy (2015) emphasizes that

experiential learning significantly enhances skill development in technical

education. Practical experiences within OJT programs provide students the

opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice. By applying

classroom knowledge in real-world settings, students enhance their technical

competencies and problem-solving abilities. McCarthy highlights that

structured, hands-on learning environments promote engagement, motivation,

and retention of essential skills. This alignment between theoretical

knowledge and practical application is vital for preparing students to meet the

demands of the aviation industry and succeed in their future careers.

Additionally, Hwang et al. (2017) underscore the importance of

collaboration and mentorship in effective training environments. Their

research indicates that teamwork not only enhances individual learning but

also fosters a supportive community among students and industry

professionals. Collaborative workspaces encourage knowledge sharing,

immediate feedback, and peer learning, all of which are essential for skill

acquisition. This social interaction enriches the educational experience,

allowing students to learn from one another while receiving guidance from

experienced mentors. Ultimately, incorporating collaboration within OJT

programs is crucial for promoting comprehensive skills development and

ensuring that students are well-equipped for the challenges of their future

careers in aviation.

This theoretical framework emphasizes that a supportive and engaging

learning environment significantly improves skills acquisition and knowledge

retention among 4th-year BSAMT students at MATS College of Technology.

By integrating experiential learning, practical application, and collaborative

opportunities, the study aims to demonstrate how OJT programs can be

optimized to better prepare students for successful careers in the aviation

industry.
Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Demographic Profile of the The impact of on-the-job

Respondents training programs on skills
development among 4th-year
bsamt students at MATS
 Age College of Technology.
 Gender
 Year Level
 Collaborative
Workspace
 Skills Acquisition
 Knowledge Retention

Figure 1. conceptual paradigm showing the variables of the study

Conceptual Framework

Figure 1. presents the conceptual paradigm of the study. The paradigm

primarily consisted of independent variable which includes the demographic

profile of the respondents namely the age, gender, and year level. On the

other hand, the dependent variable includes the impact of on-the-job training

programs in enhancing the skills development of 4th-year BSAMT students at

MATS College of Technology, which will be examined in this research.

Statement of the Problem

The study aims to assess the impact of on-the-job training programs in

enhancing the skills development of fourth-year BSAMT students at MATS

College of Technology. This research seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of:

1.1 Age

1.2 Gender

2. What is/are the impact of OJT training programs on skills development

among fourth-year bsamt students at MATS College of Technology in

terms of:

a. Collaboration Workspace

b. Skills Acquisition

c. Knowledge Retention

3. Is there a significant difference of the impact of on-the-job training

programs on skills development among fourth-year bsamt students at

MATS College of Technology?

Hypothesis

There is no significance difference on the impact of on-the-job training

programs on skills development among fourth-year bsamt students at mats

college of technology when analyze according to their demographic profile.

Significance of the Study

The results of this research categorically benefit many sectors of work

industry. Among the persons who directly or indirectly benefit was the

following enumerated below.

The result of this would be beneficial to the following:

To the teachers or instructor, of MATS College of Technology who

offer valuable information on the specific skills that graduating students

acquire through OJT. Educators can align their instructional methods with

industry demands by identifying gaps in skills development. This alignment

will guide teachers in designing more relevant coursework and training

materials, ultimately enhancing the educational experience for students.

Second, the results of the study would also be beneficial.

To the graduating aviation students, of MATS The study will help

graduating BSAMT students understand the importance of on-the-job training

in their professional development. By highlighting the skills gained through

OJT, students can better appreciate their training experiences and how these

will prepare them for successful careers in the aviation industry.

To future researchers, this study will serve as a foundational

reference for further research on the effectiveness of OJT programs in

technical education. Future researchers can build upon these findings to

explore related variables, such as employer satisfaction with graduate

competencies or long-term career outcomes for students who have

undergone OJT.

To the school administration, of MATS College of Technology who

led to evaluate the executed trainings and seminar. The results yield in the

study would motivate them to promote a more productive, effective and fruitful

imbued with skills and competence necessary in the workplace.

Scope and Limitation

The parameter of the study was only confined on the impact of on-the-

job training programs in enhancing the skills development of fourth-year

BSAMT students at MATS College of Technology. Furthermore, this study was

delimited only to the Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Technology

4th-year students, as their experiences and skill development during on-the-

job training are central to understanding the program's effectiveness. The

aforementioned parameters are the concentration in this study.

Definitions of Terms

There were various terminologies that this paper use to present a

holistic and comprehensive view about the study. For the better understanding

about these terms, the following are defined as used in this study:
On-the-Job Training (OJT) - A practical training method where

students gain hands-on experience in real work environments, allowing them

to apply theoretical knowledge and develop essential skills relevant to their

field of study.

Collaborative Workspace - Enhance teamwork, enabling students to

engage in collective problem-solving, which improves their ability to tackle

complex aircraft maintenance tasks and fosters essential interpersonal skills

needed in the aviation industry.

Skills Acquisition - Focuses on the hands-on experience gained

during on-the-job training, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge

directly, master essential aircraft maintenance skills, and develop critical

thinking necessary for real-world challenges in the aviation sector.

Knowledge Retention - Vital for the long-term application of skills

learned during training, utilizing techniques like active retrieval and peer

discussions to improve recall and boost students' confidence and competence

in addressing industry demands effectively.

CHAPTER 2

Methodology

This chapter contains the methods that will be used within the scope of

the study. It consists of the research design, research environment, and the

respondents of the study, research instrument, data gathering procedure and

its data analysis.

Research Design

This research study used a descriptive-survey method in securing data

to come up with the accurate result of the study. Descriptive research

methods describe situations. They do not make accurate predictions nor

determine cause and effect (Hale, 2018). This is appropriate in the impact of

on-the-job training programs on skills development among fourth-year bsamt

students at mats college of technology.

Types of Respondents Tools to Techniques Output

Data Gather Data to Analyze
Gathered Data

-Demographic - Frequency
profile of the -Survey
-4th-year year BS Questionnaire -Provide data to
respondents - Percentage
AMT Students at figure out the
- The impact of MATS College of - Mean impact of on-the-
Technology job training
on-the-job programs in
training
- ANOVA
enhancing the
programs on skills
skills development of
development 4th-year BSAMT
among 4th-year students at
bsamt students MATS College of
at mats college Technology
of technology
Research Locale

This research study was conducted at MATS College of Technology. It

is the first Aviation training institution which was founded way back in the

1970s in Davao City. This college offers an aviation-specialized program

particularly the Bachelor of Science of Aircraft Maintenance Technology.

MATS College of Technology is located at R. Castillo Street, Agdao, Davao

City.

Location Map
Figure 2 Location Map

Research Instrument
The method of data collection used by the researchers in the study is

through the use of survey questionnaires. The questionnaire contained two

parts: Part I contains the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of

age, gender; Part II contains the statements and the numerical scale to be

confirmed by the respondents about the impact of on-the-job training

programs on skills development among fourth-year bsamt students at mats

college of technology.

Rating Mean Descriptions Interpretation

Scale

5 4.50 – Strongly Agree BSAMT students strongly believe

that their training experience
5.00 significantly develops their skills.

4 3.50 – Agree BSAMT students agree that their

training experience notably
4.49 enhances their skills in aviation.

3 2.50 – Moderately BSAMT students moderately feel

that their training experience
3.49 Agree contributes to their skills
development.
2 1.50 – Disagree BSAMT students feel that their
training experience has little effect
2.49 on their skills development.

1 1.00 – Strongly BSAMT students do not believe that

their training experience helps
1.49 Disagree develop their skills.

Data Gathering Procedure

In gathering data for this study, the researchers first asked permission

from the Program Head of MATS College of Technology Aviation Department

to conduct the study. Then the researcher personally distributed and

administered the questionnaire. The researcher aided the students to

understand the directions upon answering the questionnaire and clarified

questions from respondents. Which are the selected aviation students of

MATS College of Technology. The researchers explained the background and

aim of the study, as well as the general instructions. Moreover, the

confidentiality of the respondents identifies is also guaranteed; thus, the

writing of their names was just optional. Finally, the data are retrieved,

collected, tallied and interpreted accordingly.

Data Analysis

The data and analysis of variance gathered were organized, analyzed,

and formulated using statistical tools. The researchers used Frequency

Count, Percentage, Mean and ANOVA in the treatment of the data

enumerated as follows:

Frequency Count. This was used to determine the exact number of

the respondents of the study.

Percentage. This was used to determine the percentage of the

respondents of the study.

Mean. This was used to determine the Preparedness of the BS

Aviation Maintenance Technology students in terms of learning transition

through laboratory practice.

ANOVA. This was used to determine the significant difference of the

preparedness of the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology

students in the transition for the learning approaches through laboratory

practice.