Written by: Dahlia D. Soriano & Leandro L. Rosete, STELA
To strengthen the academic foundation and reflective practice of first-year pre-service teachers, the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) through the BSED Program conducted a seminar titled “Piaget’s Insights: Cultivating Smarter Study Habits for Stronger BEACONs” on October 18, 2025, at the Centennial Library. Conceived as an enrichment extension of the course Child and Adolescent Learners and Learning Principles (EDCHIL1), the seminar deepened students’ understanding of classroom concepts by linking Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development to the cultivation of effective and sustainable study habits. The event gathered 150 freshmen from the Teacher Education program, along with the program faculty and a representative from the Center for Counseling and Student Development, in a collaborative effort to connect theoretical knowledge with practical learning applications.
The seminar aimed to reinforce freshmen pre-service teachers’ understanding of Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development by connecting its core principles to practical study habits that enhance effective learning. It also sought to equip future educators with strategies for academic success and lifelong learning, aligning with the BSED Program theme—Becoming Empowered Advocates of Competence and Outcomes through Nurturing Learning Communities (BEACON).
The initiative contributed to SDG 4: Quality Education by promoting inclusive, equitable, and lifelong learning opportunities for all. It also supported SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by emphasizing the importance of balanced study routines and mental wellness among students.
Through its emphasis on cognitive development and self-regulated learning, the seminar aligned with SDG Target 4.7.1, which promotes education for sustainable development by cultivating reflective, competent, and adaptable learners.
The seminar featured Mr. Ian R. Alangdeo, RPm, CHRA, from the Center for Counseling and Student Development, who delivered a dynamic and insightful lecture linking Piaget’s cognitive stages with modern study habits. His talk encouraged students to develop self-regulation, cognitive maturity, and adaptive learning strategies, vital for becoming effective and reflective future educators.
An engaging group session titled “Our Study Habits Map” followed the lecture, where participants creatively designed visual maps to illustrate personalized study strategies based on Piagetian concepts. This activity promoted collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity, allowing participants to apply theory into practice.
The event also highlighted student leadership and collaboration. Freshmen took active roles in hosting, technical support, and documentation, demonstrating initiative and teamwork—core values that reflect the University of Baguio’s commitment to experiential and transformative learning.
Feedback from participants described the seminar as insightful, interactive, and inspiring. Many students expressed that they gained a deeper understanding of how Piaget’s theory can guide effective study habits, motivation, and lifelong learning.
They appreciated learning practical strategies for time management, self-discipline, and recognizing diverse learning styles, all of which contribute to holistic well-being and academic success. Participants also commended Mr. Alangdeo’s engaging presentation and the interactive group activity, noting that both effectively bridged theory and practice.
Students recommended future seminars on classroom management, inclusive education, and effective communication, expressing enthusiasm for more experiential and pedagogically focused learning engagements.
The success of the seminar underscored the collaborative partnership between the BSED Program and the Center for Counseling and Student Development. This joint effort exemplifies SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, as it fostered interdepartmental collaboration in promoting holistic learner growth and well-being.
The seminar “Piaget’s Insights: Cultivating Smarter Study Habits for Stronger BEACONs” successfully achieved its objectives by translating cognitive theory into practical learning applications. Through the expert facilitation of Mr. Ian R. Alangdeo, RPm, CHRA, and the active involvement of freshmen pre-service teachers, the event became a meaningful avenue for promoting Quality Education (SDG 4), Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
It reaffirmed the University of Baguio’s dedication to nurturing competent, compassionate, and community-oriented educators—true BEACONs who are prepared to inspire and lead in diverse learning environments.
