National Service Training Program Experience among Pre-service Teachers Towards Civic Engagement and Citizenship

Abstract

This study explored and assessed the impact of implementation of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) of Philippine Normal University (PNU) among factors such as the experience while taking NSTP 11 & 12 courses, the embodiment of the University’s core values, the role of NSTP in civic engagement, the role of NSTP for pre-service teachers, and the role of NSTP as a citizen. The study is a descriptive correlational research design with a total of 567 participants. A survey questionnaire that contains a total of 55 Likert-type questions was given. The study assessed how the NSTP 11 and 12 courses were implemented, student experiences, how the university’s core values were embodied, and how the NSTP contributed to civic participation and pre-service teacher preparation. The outcomes demonstrated that the NSTP 11 and 12 course implementation was largely positive with some potential for improvement. The evaluation shows that NSTP has contributed in a somewhat significant way to cultivating participants’ sense of citizenship, preparing pre-service teachers, and increasing civic involvement. The factors under study showed only positive relationships with one another. Thus, students at PNU have a positive assessment of NSTP, which is effective in increasing civic involvement and readiness among students. In addition to enhancing students’ political and civic engagement and awareness, the curriculum encourages social responsibility and a dedication to public service.