COFFEE FOR PEACE ACCEPTS GRADUATING SOCIOLOGY STUDENTS FROM ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY AS INTERNS
The Department of Sociology and Developmental Studies at Ateneo de Davao University has extended an invitation for us to collaborate as a partner in their Sociology Practicum Program. This program is designed to enrich students’ understanding of the social world by offering them hands-on experience through work with real communities, organizations, or institutions. The Sociology Practicum Program bridges academic learning with structured, supervised work experience, allowing students to apply classroom theories and principles in real-world settings. Through this integration, students are not only trained in the practical use of research and project management but are also guided in developing problem-solving skills rooted in sociological concepts.
Moreover, the program emphasizes the importance of decision-making, encouraging students to actively participate in and contribute to the practicum activities. This holistic approach ensures that students emerge from the program with a well-rounded, practical, and theoretical understanding of sociology and its applications.
Only graduating students under AB Sociology that are enrolled under the course subject will be allowed to participate in the Practicum program. The following students have been selected as interns at Coffee For Peace: Daniella Marie P. Fernandez (AB Sociology 2-A), Eric B. Labore (AB Sociology 3-A), Michelle Ann P. Liu (AB Sociology 2-A), Sheryle van den Dungen (AB Sociology 2-A), and Hyacinth Jade A. San Pablo (AB Sociology 2-A). Their internships have been officially approved by Ms. Joji Pantoja, President and CEO of Coffee For Peace.
Program Objectives
The Sociology Practicum Program at Ateneo de Davao University, as agreed upon by CFP, is designed with several key objectives to prepare students for meaningful engagement in the community and to deepen their understanding of sociological principles.
First, the program aims to equip students with the necessary skills for assuming community responsibilities, enhancing their ability to apply sociological theories and methods in real-world settings. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the complexities of social work.
Second, the program exposes students to actual work environments, allowing them to implement the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom. This exposure is critical in helping students understand the practical implications of sociological concepts, as they navigate and respond to the challenges and dynamics of real-life situations.
Third, the program is focused on enhancing students’ research and community development skills. By engaging in fieldwork, students refine their abilities to conduct meaningful research, gather and analyze data, and contribute to community-driven initiatives. These experiences are invaluable in developing a strong foundation for future careers in sociology and related fields.
Finally, the program seeks to sharpen students’ sensitivity to the social conditions outside the university. By immersing them in diverse community settings, students gain a deeper awareness of the social issues and challenges faced by various groups, fostering empathy and a commitment to social justice. This sensitivity is crucial in shaping well-rounded sociologists who are attuned to the complexities of the social world.
Anticipated Benefits from this Program
Through direct engagement with communities and organizations, students encounter diverse social dynamics and challenges beyond the classroom. The program exposes them to organizational or institutional procedures and structures, teaching them to navigate hierarchies, understand processes, and develop professional conduct and communication skills.
The Program offers Coffee for Peace (CFP) valuable opportunities to connect with and mentor potential leaders who have a solid foundation in sociology. Through this collaboration, CFP can identify and nurture individuals whose sociological training aligns with CFP’s mission, potentially adding skilled candidates to its team. These students, equipped with a deep understanding of social dynamics and systemic issues, can be further developed to focus on areas critical to CFP, such as social entrepreneurship, community development, justice advocacy, and peacebuilding. This partnership not only enhances CFP’s human resources but also ensures that our social enterprise remains grounded in sociological principles, which are essential for effectively addressing social challenges and fostering sustainable peace.
Responsibilities of ADDU Department of Sociology
During the practicum semester, Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) students are carefully supervised by the assigned faculty member, who plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the program. The faculty member is tasked with the following responsibilities:
Maintaining a Working Relationship with CFP. We have been selected by ADDU based on our ability to provide practical experiences that align with the sociological theories and concepts taught in the classroom. This ensures that students are exposed to relevant and meaningful learning environments that complement their academic studies.
Providing Written Guidelines to CFP. These guidelines ensure that both the students and the institutions are aligned in their goals and that the training provided meets the educational standards of the university.
Monitoring Student Progress and Welfare. This ongoing supervision ensures that students are engaged in activities that contribute to their learning and development, and that any issues are promptly addressed to maintain a positive training experience.
Establishing Clear Grading Policies and Standards. These guidelines help ensure that students are evaluated fairly and consistently based on their achievements and participation in the program.
Assigning Prelim, Midterm, and Final Grades. This grading process offers students regular feedback and helps them understand their progress and areas for improvement.
Regular Meetings with Students. These meetings provide opportunities for students to discuss their experiences, seek guidance, and receive support in navigating the challenges of their practicum assignments.
Responsibilities of the CFP
Coffee For Peace (CFP) will assign a training officer who is responsible for the following:
Designing a Professional and Supportive Training Program. The CFP training officer develops and implements a well-planned, supervised, and varied program that aligns with the training objectives of the practicum.
Assigning Duties to Students. The training officer is responsible for assigning students to specific duties within CFP organization. These assignments are carefully chosen to provide meaningful and relevant work experience that complements the students’ academic background and career goals.
Evaluating Student Performance. This evaluation process helps ensure that students are meeting the expectations of the program and allows for the identification of areas where further development may be needed.
Providing Counseling and Support. If students encounter difficulties or require additional support, the training officer is available to provide counseling and guidance. This support is crucial in helping students overcome challenges and succeed in their practicum experience.
Through this collaborative effort between the ADDU Sociology and Developmental Studies Department and Coffee for Peace, the Sociology Practicum Program is designed to offer students a well-rounded, practical education that prepares them for their future roles as sociologists.
This collaboration allows CFP to identify and develop individuals whose sociological expertise aligns with its mission, potentially adding skilled and knowledgeable candidates to the team. By fostering these students’ understanding of social dynamics and systemic issues, CFP can further equip them to contribute to critical areas such as social entrepreneurship, community development, justice advocacy, and peacebuilding. This partnership not only strengthens CFP’s human resources but also ensures that our social enterprise remains deeply rooted in the sociological principles essential for addressing social challenges and promoting sustainable peace.
