OVERVIEW

This ePortfolio describes my EDS 199 Special Project at UPOU, which is a research project entitled "Challenges and Coping Strategies of Teachers in a Private Kindergarten without a Formal Curriculum." This research was conducted in a specific private kindergarten in Luzon, Philippines, highlighting the lived experiences of the kindergarten teachers. The project was developed through thorough research, careful planning, and thoughtful implementation. This ePortfolio ensures that I, the researcher, was able to apply the theories, principles, and concepts I have learned in the Bachelor of Education Studies (BES) program, and that I was able to reflect on my journey. This journey was more than just completing a research project; it was an opportunity to discover my strengths, overcome challenges, and grow both as a researcher and as a person.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The accomplishment of this project is dedicated to all who helped and supported me from the beginning until the end. 

Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude to the Lord, as he gave me the strength to complete this project, despite all the challenges and difficulties I have encountered in the process. I believe God led me to this project and in this institution because everything happens for a reason. It provided me the opportunity to connect with new people, and I gained first-hand experience in what it is like to interact and engage with children in meaningful ways.

I want to thank the locale’s school directress/my gatekeeper for this project. She accepted me with open arms and gave me the opportunity to accomplish my project. I would also like to thank the teachers at the same institution since they made me feel welcome in their community. Their support played a major role in the accomplishment of this project. I am also deeply grateful for all the teachers’ kindness as they made sure I was cared for, always offering me food and including me to all the school events. 

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Sir Ley Gripal for guiding me throughout this special project. He helped me stay on the right track and made me feel supported and capable, especially during the moments I doubted myself. His encouragement and insights played a big role in completing this work with confidence. I also appreciate how he made me feel comfortable and secure throughout our communication process, allowing me to express myself confidently.

I would also like to thank my sister, Jianselle To, MSP, CHRA, CEMP, for being my external adviser, supporting me, and helping me evaluate my research paper to enhance its quality. Despite her busy schedule, she guided me and helped me correct my mistakes. Additionally, I was able to work on my research paper comfortably, thanks to her generosity in sharing her laptop with me. Her kindness truly made a difference during a crucial time.

Lastly, I would like to show appreciation to my husband, family, and friends for supporting me emotionally, and always praying for my success. I truly appreciate all the people around me for giving words of encouragement and for believing in my capabilities, even when I doubted myself. Thank you.

This ePortfolio cites all the references and tools used. The content was based on the main research paper, which was checked on Turnitin for grammar, plagiarism, and AI texts. The project was developed by the author's own ideas and reflection. This ePortfolio or the research project may be used as reference by others, but with proper citation of the work.