Effectiveness of integrated theoretical and practical teaching strategies in vehicle digital control course
Chen Wu & Marilou Saong
Abstract
This investigates how the integration of theoretical and practical teaching strategies in the Vehicle Digital Control course influence student participation, comprehension of theoretical knowledge, and practical application, while also identifying key challenges and proposing targeted improvements. A qualitative descriptive research design was employed. Data were gathered through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with three (3) teachers and 10 students engaged with the integrated teaching strategy during the 2023–2024 academic year. Thematic analysis was used to interpret patterns in perceptions and experiences. The findings indicate that the theoretical and practical teaching strategies significantly enhance student engagement and the ability to apply theoretical concepts in real-world contexts. However, the study also uncovered critical barriers: limited access to functional equipment, difficulties in linking theory to practice, and inadequate teacher training in hands-on skills. Participants suggested greater investment in teaching resources, more practical teacher development programs, and the adoption of innovative methods such as project-based learning and simulation tools. The results guide the construction of an integrated Theoretical and Practical Teaching Strategies (TPTS) framework that blends essential elements, resource investment, teacher development, and creative instructional design, with active learning strategies and instant feedback. This framework confronts the key challenges identified, providing a scalable and flexible model for improving student engagement, knowledge retention, and practical skills in numerous technical courses.
Keywords
integrated teaching strategies, vocational STEM education, theory–practice integration, vehicle digital control, student engagement, hands-on learning
Author information & Contribution
Chen Wu. Master's Degree in Automotive Engineering. Doctor of Education Candidate, University of Baguio. Email: 826352499@qq.com
Marilou Saong. Corresponding author. PhD in Education. Professor, University of Baguio. Email: marilousaong@e.ubaguio.edu
"All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript."
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Funding
This work was not supported by any funding.
Institutional Review Board Statement
This study was conducted in accordance with the ethical guidelines set by the Research Ethics Committee of the University of Baguio.
AI Declaration
The authors utilized ChatGPT and QuillBot in the preparation of this work to improve readability and language. The authors reviewed and edited all content produced through the use of these tools, for which they fully accept responsibility in the final publication. Consensus AI and Elicit AI were used for purposes of literature review, while Scribbr was used for reference formatting.
Notes
Acknowledgement
References
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Cite this article:
Wu, C. & Saong, M. (2025). Effectiveness of integrated theoretical and practical teaching strategies in vehicle digital control course. International Journal of Educational Management and Development Studies, 6(3), 1-26. https://doi.org/10.53378/ijemds.353231
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