Romenick MOLINA
Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College, Philippines
DOI: 10.14689/ejer.2021.94.16

ABSTRACT
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the level of research competencies of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students from a State College concerning research conceptualization, formulation of research methods and design and data gathering, processing and analysis. Research Methods: In this study, a survey design was employed. There were 89 Grade 12 STEM students participated in this study by evaluating their selves using the Research Competencies Inventory Checklist (RCIC). Findings: The findings showed that, in general, students were competent to conduct research. This finding suggests that students gained the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct research. However, there were some competencies that need to be enhanced: i. describe the background of the research; ii. draw out and manage information from different studies; iii. construct research instrument; iv. select appropriate statistical tool in data analysis and v. infer and explain qualitative data. Implications for Research and Practice: The institution can conduct a seminar – workshop by inviting experts who can supply enough knowledge in the enhancement of the abovementioned research competencies. In addition, research teachers can develop supplementary instructional materials, such as modules and workbook, to facilitate teaching research. 
Keywords: Research, Competencies, Assessment, Conceptualization, Methods, Data Analysis