Time Management in Seminary: A Research Paper PDF

OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas TIME MANAGEMENT AS A RESPONSE TO THE CONFLICT BETWEEN ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS AND AN UNINTERRUPTED SEMINARY SCHEDULE IN THE OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY...

OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas TIME MANAGEMENT AS A RESPONSE TO THE CONFLICT BETWEEN ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS AND AN UNINTERRUPTED SEMINARY SCHEDULE IN THE OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY ​ A Research Paper Presented to the Faculty and Priests of the Oblates of Saint Joseph Minor Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in Practical Research I (Qualitative Research) Name of Authors Sem. Aerol Atienza Sem. Franz Dominic S. Dimaano Sem. Oslec Dominic Romero April 2025 1 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION Maintaining a balance between academic requirements and an uninterrupted seminary schedule can be challenging and may often lead to conflicts. Seminarians serve two commitments: in school and seminary formation. These then demand dedication and time, which are essential to achieving both goals. Thus, making time management a crucial element. Moreover, time management plays a vital role in maintaining productivity, reducing stress, and addressing conflicts between seminary schedules and studies. Students can fulfill their academic obligations by prioritizing tasks, setting a feasible schedule, and maintaining formation requirements while actively participating in seminary activities. This research explores how time management can serve as a practical solution to neutralize these two important aspects of seminarians’ lives. Background of the Study It has been a struggle for seminarians to balance academic and seminary requirements. The seminary requires its set of schedules to be followed while academics also require their collective schedules and works. This then affects their academic performance and ability to participate in the seminary formation. In a study about “The Relationship between Stress, Workload, and Time Management Academic Performance among Working Postgraduate in Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM),” the researchers concluded that “time management is one of the important components as a working student because they need to be good at managing their time and schedule” 2 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas (Salehuddin, Huzaidy, Rosli, 2019). This finding underscores the importance of effective time management for seminarians, who must navigate both the pressures of academic requirements and seminary formation. Given these challenges, this study aims to identify how time management will help seminarians’ academic performance and participation in seminary formation. Understanding this relationship will help develop strategies to improve both aspects of their formation and education. Statement of the Problem Seminarians often face conflicts balancing their academic requirements with their seminary responsibilities due to overlapping schedules and numerous errands. The demands of both academics and seminary formation are conflicting; thus, the need for a response is at hand.​ This study aims to answer the following question: 1). Why do seminarians always regard piled-up schedules as one factor impeding or affecting their studies? 2). How can students effectively implement time management strategies to achieve academic excellence? 3). Why are some seminarians able to use their time efficiently while others cannot? 3 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Scope and Delimitation of the Study This study focuses on time management as a solution for resolving the pressure between academic requirements and a fixed seminary schedule. It looks at how seminary students use good time management skills to meet their academic responsibilities and religious commitments. The study focuses on scheduling approaches, prioritization strategies, and the effects of disciplined time management on academic achievement and spiritual commitments. The research is limited to seminarians of the Oblates of St. Joseph Minor Seminary. It does not cover students in non-seminary institutions. Additionally, the study does not investigate psychological or emotional aspects influencing time management beyond its practical application in academic and religious activities. Significance of the Study Seminarians. This study will help seminarians to clear more work and requirements based on their seminary schedule since the information provided is about helping seminarians use time more efficiently. These seminarians would be able to do work before the deadline. They will be responsible and adapt more to their busy schedule. Seminary Formators. They could help each other implement plans to help seminarians make use of their time, treating the procrastinating dilemma of seminarians with heavy workloads and academic deadlines. 4 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Teachers. This study would help them create a proper solution to help seminarians have ease complying with the requirements given without having the burden of pressure of a heavy workload. Parents and Guardians. The duties and responsibilities of seminarians could affect their physical and mental health. The study informs them to know what their children are doing at the seminary and how they behave inside. The information of the study provides insight into how they apply solutions to solve these difficulties. Definition of Terms Time Management. The process of consciously planning and controlling time spent on specific tasks to increase efficiency and productivity (Coursera, 2024). It involves prioritizing activities, organizing tasks, and making intentional choices to use time effectively. Seminary Schedule. The structured daily routine followed in a seminary is designed to instill discipline, balance, and order in the lives of seminarians (Seminary of Christ the King, n.d.), and ensures they dedicate appropriate time for prayer, study, and personal growth. Seminary Formation. A holistic process that integrates prayer, academic study, spiritual direction, and practical pastoral experience (Bishop White Seminary, n.d.). It is a comprehensive training program that shapes seminarians in both their spiritual and intellectual development to prepare them for ministry. Seminary Life The daily experience of a seminarian, is a blend of academic study, prayer, and community living (Archdiocese of Seattle, n.d.). A structured environment that fosters faith, discipline, and fellowship while guiding seminarians in their vocational discernment. 5 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Academic Performance The measurement of a student’s achievement across various academic subjects, often assessed through grades, exams, coursework, and participation (Ballotpedia, n.d.). It is a reflection of how well a student understands and applies their learning in different educational areas. Academic Requirements/Obligations—The responsibilities and commitments related to educational pursuits, including attending classes, completing assignments, engaging in discussions, and following institutional policies (Yacktack, n.d.). The necessary tasks and expectations students must fulfill to meet academic standards and successfully progress in their studies. ​ ​ 6 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas CHAPTER II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE This chapter reviews studies on seminary formation, academic workload, and time management. Seminarians often struggle to balance their academic and seminary tasks, leading to stress and burnout. Research shows that good time management helps students do better, feel less stressed, and improve their study habits. Balancing prayer, study, and work can help seminarians manage their responsibilities. This study looks at these issues and suggests ways to help seminarians succeed academically and manage stress. Challenges in Seminary Formation Seminary formation involves academic, spiritual, pastoral, and human development (Congregation for the Clergy, 2016). Balancing these aspects is challenging, with many seminarians struggling to meet deadlines and fully engage in their responsibilities (Binghay, Sibal, & Taja-on, 2024). The pressure of academic requirements, spiritual commitments, and community life can lead to stress and difficulty in maintaining formation. These challenges highlight the need for effective time management to prevent burnout and ensure holistic development. The Importance of Time Management Time management plays a crucial role in balancing seminary life. Studies suggest that structured schedules improve academic performance and reduce stress (Sallehuddin et al., 2019; Nanholas, 2023). Without proper time management, seminarians may struggle to fulfill their academic and spiritual commitments, leading to poor performance and emotional 7 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas fatigue. Developing strong time management skills helps them navigate their formation effectively. Strategies for Better Time Management Structured scheduling is a proven method for improving time management (Murphy, 2016). The Benedictine model, which balances study, prayer, and work, offers a practical framework for seminarians (Gregory, 2017). This approach helps maintain discipline and prevents an imbalance between academic and spiritual responsibilities. Time Management and Academic Performance Research confirms that students who manage their time well achieve better academic results (Nonis & Hudson, 2010; Nasrullah & Khan, 2015). Proper scheduling of study sessions, assignments, and pastoral duties enhances organization and productivity. Furthermore, Aeon et al. (2021) found that effective time management improves both academic success and overall well-being, making it a key factor in seminary formation. 8 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas CHAPTER III METHODOLOGY ​ In this chapter, the researchers will discuss the research design to be used. It also includes the contributing respondents to the study, the method to be used for the collection of data, tools for data gathering, and its procedures. Research Design De Vaus defines research design as “the overall strategy and analytical approach that you have chosen to integrate coherently and logically, the different components of the study, thus, ensuring that the research problem will be thoroughly investigated.” (2006). In this study, the researchers will use phenomenology as it aims to find time management, “The universal phenomenon” (Khan et al., 2015), as a response to the conflicting seminary schedule and academic requirements. Respondents of the Study ​ The respondents of this study will be coming from the Oblates of St. Joseph Minor Seminary. Approximately 5 seminarians from the institution will collaborate through their responses. 9 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Data Collection Method This study will utilize interviews as the primary method for data collection. Through structured interviews, the researchers aim to gather in-depth insights from participants, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of their experiences and perspectives. This method ensures flexibility in responses while maintaining focus on the study’s objectives. Data Collection Procedure The data collection process in this study will follow a systematic and semi-systematic approach to ensure the reliability and depth of the gathered information. Before proceeding with the interviews, the researchers will inform the respondents about the study’s objectives, their rights as participants, and the confidentiality of their responses. Each participant will be given a letter discussing the study’s objectives, their rights as participants, and the confidentiality of their responses. The letter would also include their consent for using the data that would be gathered from them and so. The format of the letter is on the next page. 10 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas 11 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas The primary method of data collection will be structured. This approach will the researchers to guide the discussion while also giving respondents the flexibility to elaborate on their experiences. The interviews will be conducted in a quiet and comfortable setting within the seminary to create a relaxed environment where participants feel encouraged to share their thoughts openly. Each interview is expected to last approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the depth of the participant’s responses. With their permission, the interviews may be recorded to ensure accuracy in documentation and analysis. To explore the challenges of time management among seminarians, the interviews will focus on key questions such as: 1.​ How does a busy schedule affect your academic performance as a seminarian? (Paano nakakaapekto ang abalang iskedyul sa iyong akademikong pagganap bilang isang seminarista?) 2.​ Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the number of responsibilities you have to manage? How do you handle it? (Naranasan mo na bang makaramdam ng sobrang bigat dahil sa dami ng responsibilidad na kailangan mong pamahalaan? Paano mo ito hinaharap?) 3.​ What strategies do you use to prioritize tasks given that seminarians have their formative and academic responsibilities? (Anong mga estratehiya ang ginagamit mo upang bigyang prayoridad ang mga gawain, lalo na't may mga pormasyonal at akademikong responsibilidad ang mga seminarista?) 4.​ How do you balance prayer life, academic studies, and pastoral duties effectively? (Paano mo epektibong nababalanse ang buhay panalangin, akademikong pag-aaral, at pastoral na tungkulin?) 12 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas 5.​ What personal habits or characteristics do you think contribute to effective time management? (Anong mga personal na kaugalian o katangian ang sa tingin mo ay nakakatulong sa epektibong pamamahala ng oras?) 6.​ What factors do you think would help you manage your time better? (Anong mga bagay ang sa tingin mo ay makakatulong upang mas mapabuti ang iyong pamamahala sa oras?) Once the interviews are completed, the researchers will transcribe the recordings to ensure that the collected data remains accurate and unaltered. Any identifying information will be removed to maintain participant confidentiality. The transcriptions will then be reviewed, and recurring themes will be identified to categorize the responses effectively. This thematic analysis will help in recognizing patterns related to how seminarians manage their time amidst conflicting academic and seminary responsibilities. To enhance the credibility of the findings, member checking will be conducted wherein participants will have the opportunity to review their transcribed responses to verify accuracy and provide any necessary clarifications. Once the data has been thoroughly analyzed, the findings will be compiled, interpreted, and presented in the study. The final documentation will include an analysis of how time management impacts seminarians’ ability to balance their academic and spiritual responsibilities. Through this structured procedure, the researchers aim to ensure that the study produces meaningful and reliable insights into the role of time management in seminary formation.​ 13 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Here’s a summary of the key points from your text: ​ Systematic and Semi-Systematic Approach: The study ensures reliability and depth in data collection. Participants are informed about objectives, rights, and confidentiality. A consent letter is provided. ​ Structured Interviews: Researchers guide discussions while allowing participants to elaborate. Interviews take place in a quiet setting, lasting 30-45 minutes, and may be recorded with consent. ​ Key Questions: The interviews explore time management challenges among seminarians, covering topics such as academic performance, responsibilities, prioritization, balancing prayer life and studies, personal habits, and factors that improve time management. ​ Data Processing: Recorded interviews are transcribed, and identifying details are removed for confidentiality. A thematic analysis identifies recurring patterns in responses. ​ Credibility Measures: Member checking ensures accuracy by allowing participants to review and clarify transcriptions. ​ Final Analysis and Presentation: Findings will be compiled and interpreted to assess the impact of time management on balancing academic and spiritual responsibilities. The study aims to provide meaningful insights into seminary formation. CHAPTER IV REFERENCES 14 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Aeon, B., Faber, A., & Panaccio, A. (2021). Does time management work? A meta-analysis. PLOS ONE, 16(1), e0245066. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0245066 Archdiocese of Seattle. (n.d.). Seminary life. Retrieved February 3, 2025, from https://archseattle.org/living-catholic/god-is-calling-you-vocations/seminary-life/ Ballotpedia. (n.d.). Academic performance. Retrieved February 3, 2025, Retrieved from https://ballotpedia.org/Academic_performance. Binghay, M. P., Sibal, J. B. & Taja-on, E. (2024). Exploring the Lived Experiences of Seminarians: A Descriptive Exploratory Study on the Quintessential College Student Life. International Journal of Academic and Practical Research, 3(1), 91-101. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11213205 Bishop White Seminary. (n.d.). What is seminary formation? Retrieved February 3, 2025, from https://bishopwhitesem.org/formation/what-is-seminary-formation/ Congregation for the Clergy. (2016). The gift of the priestly vocation: Ratio fundamentalis institutionis sacerdotalis. Vatican Press. Coursera. (n.d.). Time management: What it is and why it matters. Retrieved February 3, 2025, from https://www.coursera.org/articles/time-management Gregory, J. (2017). Benedictine Spirituality: Prayer, Study, and Work. Retrieved November 6, 2017, from https://gcjeffers.com/2017/11/06/benedictine-spirituality-work-prayer-and-study/ 15 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas Khatib, A. S. A. (2014). Time management and its relation to students' stress, gender, and academic achievement among sample of students at Al Ain University of Science and Technology, UAE. International Journal of Business and Social Research, 4(5), 47–58. Nancholas, B. (2023, September 14). The power of effective time management. University of Lincoln. https://online.lincoln.ac.uk/the-power-of-effective-time-management/ Nasrullah, S., & Khan, M. S. (2015). The impact of time management on the students' academic achievements. Journal of Literature, Languages and Linguistics. Nonis, S. A., & Hudson, G. I. (2010). Performance of college students: Impact of study time and study habits. Journal of Education for Business, 85(4), 229–238. https://doi.org/10.1080/08832320903449550 Saad, Mourad Ali eissa. (2015). The effectiveness of Time Management Strategies Instruction on students' academic time management and academic self efficacy. International Journal of Psycho-Educational Sciences. Volume(4). 43-50. 10.19816/0023057.Swift Current Christian School. (n.d.). Daily schedule – high school. Retrieved February 3, 2025, from https://sck.ca/high-school/daily-schedule-hs/ Sallehuddin, H., Huzaidy, R., & Rosli, M. (2019). The relationship between stress, workload, and time management towards academic performance among working postgraduate students in Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). Journal of Educational Research, 32(4), 56-72. Yak Tack. (n.d.). Academic obligations. Retrieved February 3, 2025, retrieved from https://yaarchktack.com/words/academic%20obligations 16 | Practical Research 1​  OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH MINOR SEMINARY San Jose, Batangas 17 | Practical Research 1​