REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

February 28, 2017

Region Memorandum
No. 007 s. 2017

ADOPTION OF POLICY GUIDELINES OF DEPED XII INTEGRATED FRAMEWORK

IN BUILDING RESEARCH CULTURE

To: SCHOOLS DIVISION SUPERINTENDENTS

This Region

1. This guideline is the offshoot with reference to RM PPRD No. 001, s. 2017 (Orientation on
2017 Basic Education Research Fund (BERF) cum Program Implementation Review of 2016 BERF
Utilization) to contextualize DepEd Order No. 43, 2. 2015 or Revised Guidelines for the BERF dated
September 16, 2015 and DepEd Order No. 4, s. 2016 or Amendment to DO No. 43, s. 2015 dated
January 25, 2016, with a regional policy.

2. Responsive to all the issues and concerns of the implementers based on the BERF Program
Implementation Review conducted last January 13, 2017, this guideline formulated by the Policy,
Planning & Research Division (PPRD) aims to generally strengthen the effective management of
BERF in DepEd RO 12 as a leveraging mechanism and to embark relevant strategies to strategically
build a culture of research in the region.

3. Specifically, this regional policy guideline aims to:

a. expedite the liquidation of 2015 BERF by the research proponents who availed the fund
for the maximization and immediate utilization of research findings;

b. provide effective mechanisms in the utilization of the 2016 BERF for SY 2017-2018
implementation focusing on the Basic Education Research Agenda (BERA) vis-à-vis
contextualized region/division/school’s research agenda; and

c. institutionalize strategic directions in strengthening a culture of research at all levels

towards establishing evidenced-based policy formulation system, replicating significant
research-enabled practices, and research-based strategic planning/decision-making
system.

4. For further inquiries, please contact Dr. Glenn A. Bisnar - Chief of Policy, Planning &
Research Division (PPRD) through his mobile no. 09184642630.

5. For information, guidance and immediate compliance of all concerned.

DR. ARTURO B. BAYOCOT, CESO V

OIC-Regional Director

Enclosure: As stated
References: RA 9155; DepEd Order No. 13, s. 2015; DO 43, s. 2015; DO 39, s. 2016; DO 4, s. 2016
To be indicated in the Perpetual Index under the following subjects:
Policy Guidelines Research Governance Strategic Management
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

ADOPTION OF POLICY GUIDELINES OF DEPED XII INTEGRATED FRAMEWORK

IN BUILDING RESEARCH CULTURE

I. Rationale

Republic Act (RA) 9155, otherwise known as the “Governance of Basic Education Act of
2001,” mandates the Regional Office (RO) “to undertake research projects and develop and
manage region wide projects which may be funded through official development and/or funding
agencies.” Primarily, this has challenged DepEd Regional Office 12 to continuously set up
mechanisms to ensure that research as a management tool shall be optimized towards
contributing in the attainment of “Quality, Accessible, Relevant, and Liberating Basic
Education for All.”

The issuance of DepEd Order No. 39, s. 2016, known as “Adoption of the Basic Education
Research Agenda (BERA)” provides clear guidance to DepEd and its stakeholders in the conduct
of education research and in the utilization of research results to inform the Department’s
planning, policy, and program development aligned with its vision, mission, and core values.
This policy guideline has provided clear blueprint and directions in terms of the priority
research agenda that the region needs to focus on.

With the provision of funding facility for research initiatives by the regional and division
offices down to schools through the issuance of DepEd Order No. 43, s. 2015, known as “Revised
Guidelines for the Basic Education Research Fund (BERF)” and DepEd Order No. 4, s. 2016
known as “Amendment to DO No. 43, s. 2015 - Revised Guidelines for the Basic Education
Research Fund (BERF),” it has paved the way to strengthen the culture of research in DepEd
RO 12.

Moreover, in its quest to further intensify the research culture in the entire region,
various innovations have already been initiated and major milestones have been established.
Based on the recent Program Implementation Review (PIR) conducted last January 13, 2017,
varied innovative practices have already been instituted across the nine (9) School Division
Offices, such as: strengthening Continuous Improvement (CI) through BERF, provision of
incentives and awards to best researchers, establishment of functional Technical Assistance
(TA) mechanism to research enthusiasts through the involvement of division key personnel,
conduct of Division Research Congress, teamwork of Functional Divisions (CID & SGOD),
creation of pool of researchers by district, and reproduction of division research journal.

However, despite all these major milestones, there are still education policy gaps, issues,
general problem areas, and other concerns that need immediate interventions, such as: very
tough requirements in the liquidation of BERF, time constraints, absence of effective
dissemination to the field in the availment of BERF, underutilization of research as a
management strategy, and inadequate research management skills by program holders.

Considering all these identified facilitating and hindering factors, DepEd RO 12 through
the PPRD is espousing an integrative mechanism to maximize existing policies, sustain major
valuable milestones and address continuing challenges identified. Hence, this policy guideline
on the Adoption of DepEd XII Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture (IFBRC) is
hereby proposed for immediate implementation.
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

Finally, this policy explicitly deems to promote research culture in this region
particularly, among its key officials and personnel including classroom teachers.

II. Scope of the Policy

This Regional Memorandum provides the guidelines in the implementation of DepEd 12

Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture as well as the structure, Terms of Reference
(TOR), procedures, and mechanisms to contextualize the six (6) Strategic Directions that would
fully institutionalize innovative research practices and address all issues and concerns.

This Memorandum shall be implemented region-wide in all nine (9) School Division
Offices (SDOs) and shall cover all public school organizations, learning centers and partners in
the full institutionalization of research culture.

III. Definition of Terms

For clarity and consistency, the following terms frequently used in this document shall be
defined as follows:

1. Action Research – is a process of systematic inquiry to improve educational practices

or resolve problems in classrooms and schools.

2. Basic Education Research Fund (BERF) – is a grant provided by DepEd to support

education researches in aid of evidence-based policy formulation or enhancement and
replication of research-enabled practices or interventions.

3. Cascading Scheme – it is a system employed by RO in conducting research with a

purpose of capacitating the School Division Offices and schools in the process.

4. Collaborative (or Participatory) Research – is a partnership mechanism

wherein researchers are working together to achieve the common goal of producing new
scientific knowledge, testing the efficacy of educational theories or solving existing
problems.

5. Culture of Research – refers to cultivated behavior on gathering empirical evidence in

aid of policy formulation or enhancement and replication of research-enabled practices
or interventions which is being propagated in DepEd.

6. Education Research – is the scientific field of study that examines education and
learning processes and the human attributes, interactions, organization, and institutions
that shape educational outcomes (AERA).

7. Evidenced-based Policy – is a policy informed by rigorously established objective

evidence.

8. Innovation – refers to creation of new processes, ideas and structures to improve existing
system towards better performance or outcomes.
9. Monitoring & Evaluation – is a process that helps improve performance and achieve
results and its main goal is to improve current and future management of outputs,
outcomes and impact.

10. Multi-level Interfacing & Partnership – the involvement of varied stakeholders in

different educational levels or divisions with a main purpose of creating effective
engagement and strengthening partnership to achieve desired goals.
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

11. Program Implementation Review (PIR) - is an interactive review process between

program implementers and experienced program manager as a means of identifying
factors that affect program implementation in order to improve consistency of delivery
and provide assurance of implementation practices.

12. Research – a systematic process of collecting and analyzing data to increase deeper
understanding of a topic or subject being studied.

13. Research Agenda – a document containing a list of priority education research areas to
guide DepEd and its stakeholders in the conduct of research.

14. Resource Maximization – is the process of utilizing all available resources (e.g. human,
material, financial, technology, etc.) with a main purpose of achieving higher expected
outcomes.

15. System Approach – a line of thought in the management field which stresses the
interactive nature and interdependence of external and internal factors in an
organization.

16. Technical Assistance – the provision of assistance in a form of training, coaching and
mentoring or any capacity building program to improve knowledge, skills, attitudes and
values pertaining to line of works.

III. Policy Statement

In its quest to realize its mandate, DepEd RO 12 is continuously embarking effective

mechanisms to strengthen evidenced-based policy development and enhancement by
contextualizing guidelines that would be responsive and relevant to the needs of decision-
makers and program implementers in the division and school level by capitalizing research as
a strategic management tool.

This comprehensive policy guideline encompasses aspects towards efficient and effective
management of BERF (DO 43, s. 2015 & DO No. 4, s. 2016), contextualization of
regional/division and school Research Agenda vis-à-vis Basic Education Research Agenda (DO
No. 39, s. 2016), and relevant strategic mechanisms (BERF PIR 2017) that will propel the
institutionalization of research culture in the entire region at all levels.

IV. DepEd XII Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture

To realize the objectives for the full institutionalization of research culture in the entire
region, the following guidelines are hereby enforced by concretizing the six (6) Strategic
Directions, as reflected in DepEd 12 Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture as
shown below:
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

Figure 1. DepEd 12 Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture

Part I: Input – Six Strategic Directions in Building Research Culture

First part of this policy framework is the presentation of the Six (6) Strategic Directions
in Building Research Culture. The thorough discussions of each Strategic Directions are as
follows:

Strategic Direction 1: Capitalizing System Approach - Resource Maximization

To maximize available resources, this strategy includes three essential aspects: (1)
Efficient Management of BERF 2015; (2) Effective Mechanisms in the Implementation of the
2016 BERF for SY 2017-2018; and (3) Maximization of Available Resources to Support Research
Projects.

A. Efficient Management of BERF 2015

1. All research proponents who availed the 2015 BERF are directed to comply all deliverables
for immediate liquidation of funds availed, based on the following deadlines:

a. Action Research – February 28, 2017; and

b. Applied Research – March 31, 2017.

 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
2. All SDO key personnel are requested to provide technical assistance to all research
proponents by observing the following Terms of Reference (ToR):

a. Schools Division Superintendents (SDS): Sets directions in the immediate liquidation

through efficient submission of BERF deliverables and utilization of research findings as
inputs to SDO policy formulation/enhancement;

a. Assistant Schools Division Superintendents (ASDS): Does an oversight functions to

support the directions set by the SDS through the Chiefs of Curriculum & Instruction
Division (CID) & Schools Governance Operation Division (SGOD); and

b. Division Budget Officer: Provides technical assistance to all research proponents in

carrying out processes to fast track efficient liquidation of funds in partnership with the
Senior Education Program Specialists (SEPS) for Planning & Research and concerned
Public School District Supervisors (PSDS).

B. Effective Mechanisms in the Implementation of the 2016 BERF for SY 2017-2018

1. There should be equitable and efficient allocation of research funds:

a. All SDOs are encouraged to submit one (1) Applied Research & a minimum of three
(3) Action Research proposals for the equitable distribution of 2016 BERF grant.

b. The results of the approved research projects based on the Regional Review Research
Committee (RRRC) appraisal shall be disseminated immediately after the deadline to fast
track immediate release of fund to the proponents.

2. There should be judicious allocation of research funds:

a. To maximize and expedite judiciously utilization of the available funds, the deadline
in the submission of proposals is on March 3, 2017; hence, the BERF shall be granted
to proponents who shall have submitted on the deadline being set and passed vis-à-vis
BERF criteria and guidelines (DO 43, s. 2015 & DO No. 4, s. 2016) subject to the
appraisal of RRC.

b. The BERF shall be granted to research proposals which are aligned to Basic
Education Research Agenda (BERA) or the RO/SDO’s priority research agenda in order
to strategically address major challenges vis-à-vis access, quality and governance of basic
education.

C. Maximization of Available Resources to Support Research Projects

1. There is a need to maximize available funds to conduct research-related activities:

a. Utilization and maximization of MOOE or local funds (e.g. PTA fund, Canteen fund,
SEF, etc.) to support research-related activities not covered by BERF at all levels shall
be encouraged.

b. Provision of linkages with NGOs/NGAs/Funding Agencies to avail research funds for

the realization of research-related activities.

2. There is a need to enforce Key Result Areas (KRA) and Functions of Personnel on
research-related activities aligned to IPCRF:
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
a. At the SDO level, KRA on research of all personnel concerned: Chiefs, EPS, PSDS
shall be fully enforced through a localized policy.

b. The SDO shall emphasize that promotion of teachers to Master Teachers (MT) shall
take into consideration Action Researches conducted by the interested candidates
through a contextualized policy.

c. At the school level, School Heads shall maximize MTs to lead in conducting School-
Based Action Research (SBAR) through a highly functional School Learning Action
Cell (SLAC).

Strategic Direction 2: Cascading Scheme by Connecting Research to Monitoring &

Evaluation (M&E)

To utilize efficient mechanism through cascading scheme, PPRD embarks in designing

research project and utilization of research findings which can be used as templates by SDO
and schools; hence, this strategy includes two essential aspects: (1) Conducting M&E through
Research; and (2) Utilization of Research Findings in Monitoring Evaluation & Plan Adjustment
(MEPA).

A. Conducting M&E through Research

1. The Regional Office, with PPRD taking the lead in partnership with Quality Assurance
Division (QAD) & Regional Program Holders should capitalize research mechanisms in
conducting M&E of nationally-funded and regionally-initiated Policy, Programs, &
Projects (PPPs) for purposes of policy revision/enhancement/reinforcement.

2. The SDO shall capitalize on the said Research cum M&E cascading scheme by adapting
the process vis-à-vis SDO context and narrow down the system down to school level
through the supervision of PSDS.

B. Utilization of Research Findings in Monitoring Evaluation & Plan Adjustment (MEPA)

1. Utilization of research findings during MEPA at all levels (SMEPA, DMEPA & RMEPA) for
an in-depth analysis of bottlenecks and barriers for decision-making purposes and
deliberate Plan Adjustment shall be augmented.

2. Utilization of research findings in evidence-based policy formulation/enhancement and

institutionalization of research-enabled practices and systems shall be enforced.

Strategic Direction 3: Collaborative Research System - Multi-level Interfacing &

Partnership

For research culture to have rippling effects at all levels, this strategy includes three
essential aspects: (1)Effective Regional Functional Divisions (RFDs) Interfacing; (2) Effective
Division Functional Divisions (DFDs) Interfacing; (and (3) Effective Partnership with External
Stakeholders.

A. Effective Regional Functional Divisions (RFDs) Interfacing

1. The PPRD) as process owner, should take lead in ensuring that regional research-initiated
activities in the regional level are in collaboration with all the Regional Functional Divisions
(RFDs) in terms of the partnership scheme in contextualizing research agenda, conducting
research review for the BERF, conducting research projects, and in assessing papers to be
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
qualified in the Regional Research Congress (RRC) based on the thematic areas that it shall
focus, as indicated in the table below:

Table 1. Regional Functional Divisions (RFDs) Research Thematic Areas

Thematic No. Area Regional Functional Divisions
(RFDs)
Theme No. 1 Teaching & Learning Curriculum & Learning Management
Division (CLMD)
Theme No. 2 Child Protection Policy Quality Assurance Division (QAD) &
Legal Office
Theme No. 3 Human Resource Development Human Resource Development
Division (HRDD) & Administrative
Division (AD)
Theme No. 4 Governance Field Technical Assistance Division
(FTAD) & Finance Division (FD)
Cross-
Cutting
Area No. 1 Disaster Risk Reduction Education Support Services Division
Management (DRRM) (ESSD)
Area No. 2 Gender & Development (GAD) Administrative Division (AD)
Area No. 3 Special Education (SPED) CLMD – SPED Coordinator
Area No. 4 Alternative Learning System CLMD – ALS Coordinator
(ALS)

2. The PPRD should also be supportive with all the SDOs in terms of policy support,
technical assistance and Monitoring and Evaluation to ensure that all mechanisms are well-
implemented.

B. Effective Division Functional Divisions (DFDs) Interfacing

1. To establish transparency for valuable partnership, there is a need to strengthen DFDs

interfacing on research-related activities:

a. The SGOD Chief should take lead in performing oversight function to ensure that SDO
research activities, such as: formulation of contextualized SDO research agenda based
on DEDP and DMEPA results; District/Division Research Caravan, Congress,
Colloquium or Forum; provision of TA to BERF recipients; and conduct relevant
researches (funded by BERF/MOOE/SEF local funds) are fully implemented.

b. The CID Chief establishes collaborative mechanisms with SGOD in implementing SDO
research activities – EPS (Program Holders) focusing on the provision of TA to research
activities initiated by SGOD relative to the program being coordinated and subject being
handled with strong partnership with the PSDS in terms of the implementation of the
said activities to ensure that they are being cascaded well in the school level.

2. At the school level, the research collaboration can be done in two levels with the full
support, leadership, and guidance of the PSDS and school heads:

a. Curriculum/Grade Level led by Master Teachers (if there is available) for access and
governance-related Action Researches; and

b. Departmental level led by Subject Coordinator (if there is available) for quality- related
Action Researches.
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

C. Effective Partnership with External Stakeholders

The RO and SDO should collaborate with NGOs, CSOs, NGAs, TEIs/HEIs for possible
partnership on the following aspects:

1. Continuous needs-based Capability Building Program on how to conduct research to SDO

personnel, School Heads and Teachers;

2. Resource sharing partnership of valuable research endeavors;

3. Development of systems approach on operational utilization of research findings for

policy formulation and/or enhancement, replication and institutionalization of research-
enabled practices and systems; and

4. Alignments of Research Agenda for thesis/dissertation writers to ensure that researches

conducted are geared towards addressing issues and concerns of the
division/district/school.

Strategic Direction 4: Customization of Research Agenda

Using the Basic Education Research Agenda (DO No, 39, s. 2016) as a guide, there is a
need to customize research agenda vis-à-vis contexts of RO, SDO and schools. Hence, this
strategy includes three essential aspects: (1) Customization of Regional Research Agenda; (2)
Customization of Division Research Agenda; and (3) Customization of School Research Agenda.

A. Customization of Regional Research Agenda (RRA)

The RO particularly the PPRD shall take the lead in setting Regional Research Agenda (RRA)
based on the following schemes:

1. Alignment of RRA with Basic Education Research Agenda (BERA): Teaching & Learning,
Child Protection Policy, Human Resource Development & Governance and other cross-
cutting areas: GAD, DRRM, SPED & ALS;

2. Policy, Program & Projects (PPP)-focused Research Agenda, such as: ALS, IPEd, Multi-
Grade Education, Madrasah Education, etc.; and

3. Quarterly RMEPA findings-focused Research Agenda.

B. Customization of Division Research Agenda (DRA)

The SDO particularly the SGOD in partnership with the CID shall take the lead in setting
Division Research Agenda (DRA) based on the following schemes:

1. Alignment with Basic Education Research Agenda (BERA) and RRA within the context of
SDO’s major continuing challenges vis-à-vis access, quality and governance:

2. PPP-focused Research Agenda in the SDO Level: ALS, IPEd, Multi-Grade Education,
Madrasah Education, etc.; and

3. Quarterly DMEPA findings-focused Research Agenda.

C. Customization of School Research Agenda (SRA)

 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

The School Head shall take the lead in setting School Research Agenda (SRA) based on the
following schemes:

1. Alignment with the DRA vis-à-vis access, quality and governance:

2. Priority Improvement Areas (PIAs)-focused based on Enhanced-School Improvement

Areas (E-SIP); and

3. Quarterly SMEPA findings-focused Research Agenda.

Strategic Direction 5: Continuous Provision of Technical Assistance (TA)

For efficient research management and effective BERF utilization and liquidation, this
strategy covers three levels in the provision of TA:

A. Regional Technical Assistance to SDOs:

1. The PPRD in partnership with the Finance Division (FD) shall convene all the BERF research
proponents, for intensive orientation particularly on how to comply expected deliverables by
tranche and efficient liquidation process as stated in DO 43, s. 2015 & DO No. 4, s. 2016.

2. The PPRD in partnership with FTAD & HRDD shall collaboratively provide TA to SDOs that
need further TA on different aspects of research management.

3. The PPRD shall conduct coaching and mentoring to SGOD particularly to newly appointed
SEPS for Planning & Research who requests for further guidance.

B. Division Technical Assistance to Schools:

1. The SDO (SGOD) shall provide continuous TA to division personnel who avails the BERF
with their Applied Research projects or research proponents who apply to avail research
financial supports from Special Education Fund (SEF).

2. The CID (EPS & PSDS) shall provide continuous follow-up particularly on Action Research
proponents that need TA based on their performance in complying expected deliverables vis-à-
vis approved Work Financial Plan (WFP).

C. School’s Technical Assistance to Teachers

1. The School Heads through the School Research Committee are directed to: (a) provide
Technical Assistance also to the teachers who availed the BERF for the completion of the study;
(b) extend all kinds of support (liquidation reports preparation & transportation chargeable
against MOOE or local funds) to teachers in processing liquidation documents to the RO, and
(c) ensure mechanism that their classes are being attended to.

2. Through Learning Action Cell (LAC), School Heads and/or Master Teachers are directed to
do coaching and mentoring to all teachers so they would be encouraged to conduct School-
Based Action Research (SBAR) to provide solutions to classroom/school problems.

Strategic Direction 6: Commitment for Innovation

 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
To fully institutionalize the building of Research Culture at all levels, all DepEd key
personnel are encouraged to be fully committed to initiate innovations in terms of: (a) Research
Findings Dissemination; (b) Research Findings Utilization; (c) Recognition: Provision of
Incentives and Awards; and (d) Utilization of Continuous Improvement (CI) Methodology.

A. Innovation on Research Findings Dissemination

1. At the Regional Level, dissemination of research findings can be done using the following
schemes:
a. An Annual Regional Research Congress shall be held to provide an avenue for best
educational researches to be well-disseminated by observing the following guidelines:

 Preferably Applied and Basic Researches to be presented through Oral

Presentation and Action Researches to be presented for Poster Presentation;

 Call for papers shall be done during the Third Quarter to provide the Regional
Research Committee ample time to screen papers for presentation;

 The Annual Regional Research Congress shall be done in the Fourth Quarter of
the year as input to Annual Report and Budget Preparation.

b. All best educational researches presented during the Annual Regional Research
Congress shall be disseminated though the Regional Research Journals by observing the
following guidelines:

 Volume 1 includes researches under Theme No. 1: Teaching & Learning;

 Volume 2 includes researches under Theme No. 2: Child Protection Policy;
 Volume 3 includes researches under Theme No. 3: Human Resource Development;
and
 Volume 4 includes researches under Theme No. 4: Governance and Cross-cutting
Areas: DRRM, GAD, SPED & ALS;
 Volume 5 includes BERF researches; and
 Volume 6 includes CI Projects.

2. All SDOs are directed to conduct Division Research Congress, Conference or Forum to
provide avenue so that all research projects can be presented for benchmarking purposes and
as basis in choosing papers with high quality value that can be presented in the Regional Level.

3. All PSDS particularly in the big SDOs are encouraged to conduct District Research Congress,
Conference or Forum to provide avenue so that all research projects can be presented for
benchmarking purposes and as basis in choosing papers with high quality value that can be
presented in the Division Level.

B. Innovation on Research Findings Utilization

Basically, utilization of research findings can be done in terms of the following ways but
DepEd key personnel are encouraged to find innovative ways on how to actualize these:

1. Replication of enabled-research practices particularly those which are proven to have

significantly created an impact to improve access, quality and governance;

2. Utilization of research-based findings for policy contextualization, enhancement or

formulation; and
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
3. Inclusion of research or evidence-based findings to MEPA at all levels (school, division &
region) for strategic planning, decision-making and plan adjustment.

C. Innovation on Recognition: Provision of Incentives and Awards

1. Research proponents who performed well in the Division, Region and National Research
Conference/Congress shall be prioritized to avail BERF grants as long as the research proposals
met the minimum requirements (60% rating) based on the guidelines (DO No. 43, s. 2015 & DO
No. 4, s. 2016).

2. DepEd personnel who are undergoing Thesis/Dissertation writing shall be granted with the
following privileges when the schedule falls during school/working days with a condition that
they shall submit to SDO (CID – researches related to Curriculum and Instruction; SGOD –
researches related to Governance) a research abstract and/or policy brief:
 One (1) day Official Time during proposal defense for those who are taking Masteral
Program; and
 One (1) day before and one (1) day during the final defense for those who are taking
Doctoral Program.

3. SDOs are encouraged to employ any Incentive and Award Schemes to recognize highly
valuable researches conducted by any DepEd personnel.

D. Utilization of Continuous Improvement (CI) Methodology

To ensure that this IFBRC Framework shall be fully implemented and create sustainable
impact in truly building research culture, CI Methodology shall be used at all levels to thresh
out areas that need to be improved through the 3 A’s strategy: Assess – Analyze – Act.

1. There is a need to Assess status of implementation of the Six Strategic Directions using the
following steps: Step 1 - Getting Organized; Step 2 – Talk to Customers; Step 3 – Walk the
Process; and Step 4 – Identify Improvement Areas.

2. The proponents need to Analyze thoroughly the identified Priority Improvement Area (PIA)
using the following steps: Step 5 – Do Root-Cause Analysis; Step 6 – Develop Solutions; and
Step 7 – Finalize Improvement Plans.

3. To implement the finalized plan, there is a need to Act it out based on the following: Step 8
– Pilot Solutions; Step 9 – Roll Out Solutions; and Step 10 – Check Progress.

Part II: Process in the Execution of the Six Strategic Directions of the Integrated
Framework in Building Research Culture (IFBRC)

For the proper execution of this IFBRC Framework, there are three (3) major phases
which have been observed: Preparation Phase, Implementation Phase, and Institutionalization
Phase. The comprehensive discussions of each phase are as follows:

Phase I: Preparation Phase

 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
Under this phase, the six (6) Strategic Directions of DepEd XII Integrated Framework in
Building Research Culture have undergone the following stages: Agenda Setting, Policy
Formulation, Policy Evaluation, and Policy Dissemination.

Stage 1: Agenda Setting

This phase involves the recognition of education policy gaps, issues, general problem
areas, opportunities, trends, goals and other concerns which may require policy intervention in
terms of enhancement, formulation or contextualization. It focuses on the identification of
priority areas where policies can be developed.

In line with this regional policy, it includes a rigorous process of identifying issues,
concerns and innovative practices that will help to strengthen research culture in DepEd XII
through document analysis of the Program Implementation Review of BERF 2015 consolidated
feedbacks and relevant findings of researches conducted. After a thorough process, this
Regional Policy Guideline of DepEd XII Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture has
been proposed based on the hindering and facilitating factors that affect the full
institutionalization of research culture in the region at all levels.

Stage 2: Policy Formulation

At this stage, education policy gaps, issues, general problem areas, opportunities, trends,
goals and other concerns which were approved by the SDO program implementers through the
leadership of the PPRD as part of the policy agenda for the conduct of policy analysis, are now
translated into specific problem or issue that may be addressed by several alternatives. The
proponent (PPRD) conducted policy analysis to properly identify the problem and generate policy
alternatives or options.

Adopting the models of policy analysis as stipulated in DO No. 13 s. 2015 (Establishment

of a Development Process at Department of Education), the PPRD has proactively engaged
relevant stakeholders particularly SDO key implementers (CID & SGOD Chiefs, Planning
Officers and SEPS for Planning & Research) in the various process of policy analysis. Using the
Focus Group Workshop (FGW) technique in policy analysis, the PPRD was able to conduct a
thorough policy analysis which has become the major basis in formulating this guideline.

The proponent has also conducted research review to find studies and empirical
evidences to establish the problem, generate policy options, forecast their outcomes, and to
support other aspects of the policy analysis. Such participatory and evidenced-based
approaches have been observed in the formulation of this regional policy by contextualizing
existing policies. After observing said policy analysis processes, the six strategic directions have
been formulated through the Input-Process-Output (IPO) Model which has been the focus of
this regional guideline.

Stage 3: Policy Adoption

After the review of the Assistant Regional Director (ARD) and upon the Regional Director’s
approval of the policy proposal, he shall affix his signature to the Regional Memorandum
articulating the proposed policy. The regional standardized steps in the policy dissemination
have been observed before this regional policy is uploaded in the DepEd 12 website.

Stage 4: Policy Dissemination

 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org
After policy adoption, DepEd RO 12 shall implement the new policy following the
mechanisms, procedures, roles and responsibilities and activities embedded in this Regional
Memorandum. Capacity building activities, when necessary shall also be undertaken to
effectively and efficiently carry out this policy.

Phase II: Implementation Phase

This phase is a process which involves multiple decisions, actions, and corrective
measures to improve the structures and conditions necessary to successfully implement and
sustain the proposed new innovative IFBRC framework. To ensure efficient and effective
realization of this framework, observing stage-appropriate implementation activities is
necessary for successful new proposed policy to be used and for organizations and systems to
improve and fully support new directions. Hence, this policy covers four functional
Implementation Stages: Exploration, Installation, Initial Implementation, and Full
Implementation Stage. The discussions of these stages are as follows:

Stage 1: Exploration Stage

The Exploration Stage is a critical starting point when certain organization embarks
changes. This stage is also the time to assess potential barriers to implementation related to
staffing, referrals, and system changes. The result of the Exploration Stage is a clear
implementation plan with tasks and time lines to facilitate the installation and initial
implementation of the program. The key functions of the Exploration Stage include:
Identification of needs and options; Creation of readiness; Identification of usable intervention;
Development of team structures; and Development of Communication Plan.

Stage 2: Installation Stage

After making a decision to embark implementing the new strategic directions, there are
tasks that need to be accomplished before the change in practice actually begins. These
activities reflect the Installation Stage of implementation. Activities during the Installation Stage
create the infrastructure and make the instrumental changes necessary. Key functions of the
Installation Stage include: Development of Training Plan; Training of Staff; Development of
Coaching Plan; Establishment of Readiness of Data Systems; and Establishment of
Communication Protocols.

Stage 3: Initial Implementation Stage

The Initial Implementation Stage begins after the proposed policy has been adopted and
disseminated. During this Stage, implementers are expected to execute the Six Strategic
Directions in the context of school, SDO and RO that is to make the change relevant to the level
of organization. The key functions of the Initial Implementation Stage include: Coaching to
support implementers; Initial assessment of competency drivers; Practice-policy
communication cycles; and Data use for improvement.

Stage 4: Full Implementation Stage

Empirical evidences posited that the full implementation of any endeavor is achieved
when 50% or more of the intended target implementers are using an effective innovation to
implement the framework’s six strategic directions. In the Full Implementation Stage, the new
Six Strategic Directions of IFBRC will form part the way RO, SDO and schools carry out their
work. The key functions of the Full Implementation Stage include: Evaluation for expected
outcomes; Full use of Implementation drivers; Policy changes or enhancement for
sustainability.
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

Phase III: Institutionalization Phase

This is a process which translates an organization's strategic directions into action

guidelines applicable to the regular activities of its implementers at all levels from the region,
division down to schools. It aims at integrating essential values, mechanisms and objectives
into the organization's culture and structure. It covers four basic stages: Awareness,
Experiential, Expansion and Consolidation. The figure below shows the process on
institutionalizing DepEd 12 Integrated Framework in Building Research Culture (IFBRC):

Maturity
Six Directions of
IFBRC formally &
philosophically
institutionalized into
DepEd XII
Organization

Consolidation

Expansion
Experiential
Awareness

Existing
Organization has
no formal
Institutionalized
Integrated
Framework in
Building Research
Culture (IFBRC)

Figure 2. The Process Flow of DepEd 12 Integrated Framework in Building Research

Culture (IFBRC)

The above model presents the process flow on how DepEd 12 Integrated Framework in
Building Research Culture (IFBRC) will be institutionalized. The institutionalization of the
IFBRC process shows how DepEd 12 shall continuously evolve until IFBRC is formally and
strategically integrated into its structure and functions reaching the maturity stage.

To make the model highly functional, the framework also includes a roadmap that clearly
describes the four stages: Awareness, Experiential, Expansion and Consolidation in terms of
the following: Characteristics, Strategies, and Indicators of Readiness to Progress as shown in
the table below:
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

Table 2. IFBRC Roadmap: Institutionalization Stages, Characteristics, Strategies, and

Indicators of Readiness to Progress
Stages Illustrative Potential Strategies or Indicators of
Characteristics Activities Readiness to Progress
Awareness Decision makers and  Demonstrate need for Deliberate decision
Stage Policy makers becoming improvements (using by organization to
conscious of need to comparative data and explore IFBRC as a
systematically address surveys). mechanism to
improvements in  Create IFBRC awareness improve Research
research culture through formal and Culture at all levels
through the Integrated informal benchmarking. (RO, SDO & School)
Framework in Building  Set mechanisms so that
Research Culture IFBRC has improved the
(IFBRC) desired change.
Experiential Organization trying  Implement small scale Increased leadership
Stage approaches to learn and IFBRC activities. support and formal
document results in the  Develop enhanced decision to develop an
implementation of the mechanisms for diffusion of organizational and
IFBRC IFBRC results and lessons innovative strategy
learned. for IFBRC
Expansion Expansion of the IFBRC  Develop strategy for IFBRC  Existence of
Stage in scale, scope, and expansion (e.g. priorities, demonstrated
implementation organizational strategy). improvements in
increasing  Conduct capability building quality researches
organizational capacity and leadership as a result of IFBRC
to actualize the Six development for IFBRC.  Consensus among
Strategic Directions  Diffuse innovation and decision and policy
results. makers that IFBRC
merits continuation
Consolidation Simultaneously  Identify missing or lagging Full implementation
Stage strengthening and IFBRC activities and of a set of balanced
anchoring existing essential elements and take IFBRC strategic
IFBRC activities into corrective action. directions and
standards  Enhance coordination of activities that are
organizational IFBRC strategic directions integrated into KRAs
operations, while and activities. of FDs and/or
addressing lagging  Support for learning responsibilities
missing activities environment and throughout the
Continuous Improvement organization at all
(CI). levels (RO, SDO &
School) vis-à-vis
IPCRF/ DPCRF/
OPCRF

Part III. Output - Improvement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

With the institutionalization of the Input (Six Strategic Directions in Building Research
Culture) which was formulated through a well-defined Process (Execution of the Strategic
Directions in Building Research Culture), the adoption of this IFBRC Framework is deemed to
help improve: Access: Net Enrolment Rate (NER), School Leaver Rate (SLR), Cohort Survival
Rate (CSR), and Completion Rate (CR); Quality: Achievement Rate; and Governance: School-
Based Management (SBM Level of Practice both in elementary and secondary levels.
 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
REGION XII
City of Koronadal, Philippines
Telefax No. (083) 228-8825; email: regio12@deped.gov.ph
Website: depedroxii.org

V. Monitoring & Evaluation

In the process of the implementation of this policy guideline, the PPRD shall continuously
gather feedback from all the concerned implementers at all levels. It shall conduct a periodic
review of this policy to further enhance its provisions and effectiveness.

VI. Effectivity/Transitory Provision

This Regional Memorandum shall immediately take effect upon issuance and shall be
reviewed annually to be relevant with the demands of time vis-à-vis alignment to new DepEd
Orders and Memoranda regarding research guidelines.

VII. References

BERF 2106 Program Implementation Review: January, 13, 2016

Bisnar, Glenn A. (2017). MEPA Technology: Endogenizing Integrative Mechanism in the

Governance of DepEd XII Basic Education.

DepEd Order No. 13, s. 2015, “Establishment of a Development Process at Department

of Education.”

DepEd Order No. 43, s. 2015, “Revised Guidelines for the Basic Education Research
Fund (BERF).”

DepEd Order No. 39, s. 2016, “Adoption of the Basic Education Research Agenda
(BERA).”

DepEd Order No. 4, s. 2016, “Amendment to DO No. 43, s. 2015 - Revised Guidelines for
the Basic Education Research Fund (BERF).”

Silimperil, Diana R. et. al. (2002). A framework for institutionalizing quality assurance
Quality Assurance Project, University Research Co., LLC, Bethesda, MD, 2 Martha Elliot Health
Center, Boston, MA, USA International Journal for Quality in Health Care 2002; Volume 14,
Supplement 1: 67–73.