CORRELATING DECISION-MAKING AND SYSTEMS APPROACH TO INSTRUCTIONAL CHANGE FOR QUALITATIVE HIGHER EDUCATION OUTCOMES

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between influential decision-making factors and the implementation of a systems approach to instructional change across select private higher education institutions in Pagadian City during the Second Semester of School Year 2020–2021. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, data were gathered from 41 school leaders, including principals, deans, department heads, and board directors, and 184 classroom teachers representing Southern Mindanao Colleges, Pagadian Capitol College, Zamboanga Del Sur Maritime Institute of Technology, Eastern Mindanao College of Technology, and Medina College. The research evaluates five decision-making variables (past experiences, cognitive biases, escalation of commitment, individual differences, and personal relevance) against four stages of instructional change (assessing program relevance, planning improvements, implementing modifications, and evaluating outcomes). Statistical analysis employing t-tests and z-tests was conducted to identify significant relationships and variations across these metrics. Ultimately, the study seeks to optimize qualitative educational outcomes by fostering creativity and interdependence among academic stakeholders, offering practical frameworks for institutional decision-makers to manage sustainable instructional growth in various administrative contexts.