Presentation Schedule
Preparedness of STEM and Non-STEM Students for Success in Engineering Programs: A Comprehensive Analysis of Academic Foundations and Skill Proficiency (103516)
Session Chair: Emily Yee Fun Woo
Sunday, 8 February 2026 15:55
Session: Session 3
Room: Opal 105 (Level 1)
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
This study investigated the preparedness of STEM and non-STEM students for success in engineering programs, focusing on academic foundations, skill proficiency, curriculum gaps, and support needs. Data was gathered from 127 respondents through structured questionnaires. Findings revealed that most entrants to engineering programs were from the STEM strand (88.2%), with strengths concentrated in mathematics-related subjects such as General Mathematics (69.3%) and Basic Calculus (56.7%). However, persistent weaknesses were noted in Chemistry (59.8%), Physics (48.0%), and Biology (39.4%), indicating uneven mastery even among STEM graduates. Both STEM and non-STEM students reported moderate overall readiness (M = 3.18, SD = 0.74) and emphasized the need for further development of higher-order skills, particularly critical thinking (89.8%), hands-on application of theoretical concepts (74.0%), and creativity (53.5%). Curriculum gaps, including ineffective teaching strategies and lack of interactive learning, were identified as barriers to preparedness. Students also strongly recommended academic tutoring (55.9%), bridging courses (10.2%), and access to practical resources (18.9%) as essential support mechanisms. These findings underscore the importance of aligning high school preparation with engineering program requirements, while simultaneously providing institutional support services to foster both academic success and retention.
Authors:
Victor Sherwin Galamgam, Pangasinan State University, Philippines
Quincy Jones Bundal, Pangasinan State University, Philippines
Reamlyx Lachica, Pangasinan State University, Philippines
Megan Bergania, Pangasinan State University, Philippines
About the Presenter(s)
Dr Victor Sherwin Galamgam is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at Pangasinan State University in Philippines
See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule
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