In the ever-evolving world of academic research, staying ahead of the curve is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. It’s about asking better questions and finding more complete answers. We are proud to highlight the recent professional development journey of one of our dedicated faculty members, Mr. Jeremy Jireh S. Neo, Instructor I, who is bringing fresh perspectives back to our campus.

Mr. Neo recently attended the intensive Training-Workshop on Mixed Method Research Design, a three-day event held from August 28-30, 2025, at the Castle Peak Hotel in Cebu City. Hosted by the prestigious International Association of Scholarly Publishers, Editors, & Reviewers, Inc., the workshop gathered a vibrant community of research practitioners and educators from all over the Philippines.

A Deep Dive into a Hybrid Approach

The workshop was more than just a series of lectures; it was an insightful exploration into the powerful synergy of combining qualitative and quantitative research methods. The sessions were spearheaded by Dr. Mary Gretchen F. Chaves, a renowned academic leader and a passionate advocate for research excellence.

The first day laid the groundwork, with Dr. Chaves providing an in-depth introduction to Mixed Method Research. Participants explored the core philosophies, unique characteristics, and distinct advantages of this approach, understanding why and when to blend different research styles.

The second day moved from theory to practice. Dr. Chaves guided the attendees through the process of conducting a mixed methods study, focusing on three core designs:

• Convergent Design: Collecting qualitative and quantitative data simultaneously and merging the results for a comprehensive understanding.
• Exploratory Sequential Design: Starting with qualitative data to explore a phenomenon and then using the findings to build a quantitative study.
• Explanatory Sequential Design: Beginning with a quantitative study and then using qualitative methods to explain the results in greater detail.

The training culminated in a hands-on workshop where participants, including Mr. Neo, presented their own research problems, questions, and conceptual frameworks. This practical session allowed them to receive direct feedback and valuable insights from Dr. Chaves, refining their own research concepts on the spot.

Key Takeaways: A New Lens for Research

For Mr. Neo, the experience was transformative. “Attending this training workshop truly expanded my perspective on Mixed Methods Research,” he shared.

He came away with a much deeper appreciation for how blending qualitative and quantitative approaches can enrich the entire research process, especially in complex fields where one method alone might not capture the full picture. Mr. Neo found the discussions eye-opening, noting that they highlighted “not only the practical applications of mixed-method designs but also their value in upholding rigorous academic standards in today’s fast-evolving research landscape”.

“It was a timely and insightful experience”

he concluded, “that sharpened both my understanding and my approach to conducting meaningful studies”.

Bringing the Knowledge Home: An Action Plan for Growth

The most exciting part of professional development is seeing how it translates into action. Mr. Neo has already outlined a clear plan to share his newfound knowledge and integrate it into our academic community.

His Learning Application Plan includes two key objectives:

• Sharing with the Community: Mr. Neo plans to conduct a seminar and training session for interested faculty members and students during the 2025-2026 school year, ensuring his colleagues and our learners can also benefit from these advanced research concepts.
• Enhancing the Curriculum: He will directly apply his learning by updating course syllabi for related subjects. This involves revising course objectives, integrating new teaching strategies, and developing output-based learning activities that reflect a mixed-methods approach, providing our students with a more robust and contemporary research education.

We commend Mr. Jeremy Jireh S. Neo for his commitment to continuous learning and for his proactive efforts to elevate the standard of research and instruction within our institution. His dedication not only enhances his own professional practice but also enriches the academic experience for our entire community.