The Perceived Impact of TVL-ICT Senior High School Work Immersion Program on Middle-Level Employment Readiness and Tertiary Education Preparation

The purpose of this study was to assess the perceived impact of work immersion in the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) strand on senior high school students’ work readiness and college readiness in the Philippines. The researchers surveyed Grade 12 TVL-ICT students at Echague National High School. The study revealed that work immersion improves technical skills, including hardware assembly, software installation, and adherence to occupational health and safety practices. It also enhances students’ tool setup, market knowledge, and entrepreneurial competencies. Moreover, it fosters self-improvement, career planning, and the ability to generate business ideas. However, there are still areas for growth and development, particularly in understanding customer value and connecting senior high learning to college programs. Students become more motivated and informed as they go through the work immersion process, helping them make wiser choices regarding their college programs and career paths. The research also uncovered gender differences, with male students demonstrating greater confidence, technical proficiency, and motivation in hands-on training compared to their female counterparts. This highlights the need for more inclusive strategies to enhance female participation and ensure equal learning opportunities. It is recommended to strengthen partnerships between schools and industry, promote innovation-oriented training, implement mentorship programs, and address gender disparities. If these mechanisms are enhanced, work immersion can more effectively equip learners for success in their chosen paths.