The City College of Cagayan de Oro continues to advance innovation in higher education as its research team presented a pioneering study at the 54th National and 15th International Convention of the Philippine Association for Teachers and Educators (PAFTE-National) last October 9, 2025 at St. Louis University, Baguio City.
The team, composed of Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, Dr. Amor Q. de Torres, Dr. Joel D. Potane, Dr. Ma. Aira Chenessa Aguilar, Prof. Eldin D. Camposo, Ms. Sittie Aliah S. Paki, Mr. Eugene D. Ranoco, Mr. Fhel Jhon V. Feliciano, Ms. Janice A. Calapiz, Mr. Hope D. Cariño, and Mr. Ray Mar Donggian, presented their research titled “Design and Utilization of Climate and Disaster Resilience Courseware and Learning Videos in Advancing SDGs: Strengthening Functional Literacy and Disaster Readiness in Vulnerable Communities.”
Developed alongside Capitol University, the study reimagines disaster education as an interactive and action-oriented learning experience. Dr. Babia, the lead presenter, explained that the research was motivated by a crucial question: “How can education survive, adapt, and empower communities in the face of climate disasters?”
The courseware combines science, storytelling, and real-life community experiences. It aims to equip teachers, students, and volunteers with vital knowledge on how to respond before, during, and after climate-related emergencies. Using the ADDIE Model and Mayer’s Multimedia Learning Theory, the digital materials are designed to be simple, visual, localized, and accessible even in areas with limited internet connectivity.
From January to June 2025, the team tested the courseware with learners across Northern Mindanao. Results showed a 92% engagement rate and a 28% boost in participants’ climate literacy levels. These findings confirm that meaningful, contextualized learning enhances both awareness and community action. “When learning is local, visual, and relevant, people don’t just participate. They stay, engage, and act,” shared Dr. Potane, the Program Manager.
The CCCDO research emphasizes the power of education to build resilience from the ground up. It highlights the need for stronger partnerships among schools, government agencies, and communities to integrate climate literacy into teaching, training, and local disaster preparedness initiatives.
Through this effort, the City College of Cagayan de Oro continues to demonstrate that even a young institution can lead with purpose, bridging education, technology, and sustainability to empower communities and save lives.