Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025): The QUEST: Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development
Articles

Hands-On from a Distance: The Perceptions of MAT General Science and Technology Graduate Students Towards Lab-at-Home Experiences

  • Darwin Reyes,
  • Nancy Joy Mangansat,
  • Jocelyn Cruz
Darwin Reyes
Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology
Nancy Joy Mangansat
Graduate School, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology
Jocelyn Cruz
Graduate School, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology
DOI: https://doi.org/10.60008/thequest.v4i2.289

Published 12/30/2025

Keywords

  • Creativity,
  • Graduate students,
  • Lab-at-home experiences,
  • Perceptions,
  • Science education

How to Cite

Reyes, D., Mangansat, N. J., & Cruz, J. (2025). Hands-On from a Distance: The Perceptions of MAT General Science and Technology Graduate Students Towards Lab-at-Home Experiences. The QUEST: Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, 4(2). https://doi.org/10.60008/thequest.v4i2.289

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Abstract

This study aims to address the critical challenge of delivering practical laboratory skills during remote instruction. The purpose was to determine the perceptions of Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) General Science and Technology graduate students regarding the pedagogical value, challenges, and effectiveness of mandatory lab-at-home experiences. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing a 5-point Likert scale and an open-ended question, with 20 graduate students participating. Results indicated a positive perception, particularly regarding instructional quality, with the clarity of design receiving a mean score of 4.85 out of 5. This result affirms the success of the experience in conceptual learning. Qualitative findings highlighted key benefits, including the promotion of student resourcefulness, time efficiency, and flexibility. Conversely, critical limitations were identified, such as a lack of precision due to non-calibrated equipment, concerns over safety supervision, and the absence of collaborative peer interaction. The major conclusion is that the lab-at-home experience is an excellent complementary pedagogical strategy, efficient for conceptual development and promoting creativity. Still, it must be integrated into a hybrid model to ensure proper training in safety, standardization, and quantitative accuracy.

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