EVALUATING THE ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF ICT LITERACY TRAINING TO EMPOWER RURAL FARMING COMMUNITIES

Authors

  • Chester L. Cofino Dean, College of Computer Studies, 1Central Philippines State University, Main Campus, Philippines
  • Shara Mae R. Tee Instructor, 2Central Philippines State University, Main Campus, Philippines
  • Glorybe E. Alegre Instructor, 3Central Philippines State University, Main Campus, Philippines
  • Guilbert Nicanor A. Atillo Director of Extension Services, Negros Oriental State University, Main Campus, Philippines
  • Dindo R. De la Peña Associate Professor, 5Negros Oriental State University, Main Campus, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v12i11.6290

Keywords:

ICT literacy, socio-economic impact, rural development, farmers’ training, digital inclusion

Abstract

This study evaluates the social and economic impacts of the ICT literacy training program conducted for the members of the Camingawan-Tagukon Farmers Association (CATAFA) in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, Philippines. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected data through surveys, key informant interviews (KIIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), and document analysis to comprehensively assess the program's outcomes. Findings reveal that the training has significantly improved participants' digital literacy, productivity, and awareness of sustainable practices. Recommendations include enhancing digital access, integrating financial and environmental literacy, and providing ongoing support to ensure long-term impact.

 

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Author Biographies

  • Chester L. Cofino, Dean, College of Computer Studies, 1Central Philippines State University, Main Campus, Philippines

    Chester L. Cofino, IT Lecturer and researcher in the field of IT, focusing on Machine Learning, Education Technology, and Cyber Security.

  • Shara Mae R. Tee, Instructor, 2Central Philippines State University, Main Campus, Philippines

    Shara Mae R. Tee, is an instructor at Central Philippines State University with a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Information Technology. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in IT at the State University of Northern Negros (SUNN) and is a Licensed Professional Teacher and CSPE passer. She is currently focusing on Blockchain Technology and Education Technology-related studies.

  • Glorybe E. Alegre, Instructor, 3Central Philippines State University, Main Campus, Philippines

    Glorybe E. Alegre, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Central Philippines State University (CPSU), Kabankalan City. She finished her Master's in Information Technology (MIT) at Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology, now State University of Northern Negros (SUNN), Sagay City, Negros Occidental, and is currently enrolled in Doctor in Information Technology (DIT) at State University of Northern Negros (SUNN), Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

  • Guilbert Nicanor A. Atillo, Director of Extension Services, Negros Oriental State University, Main Campus, Philippines

    Guilbert Nicanor A. Atillo, an Associate Professor 5 at Negros Oriental State University – Main Campus, is the Director of Extension Services.

  • Dindo R. De la Peña, Associate Professor, 5Negros Oriental State University, Main Campus, Philippines

    Dindo R. De la Peña, a faculty member of the College of Education at Negros Oriental State University – Main Campus.

References

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Published

2025-09-23

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 11 (2025)

Section

Articles

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