The Criminology Internship: Its Influence Towards Knowledge and Skills Development of Criminology Interns

AbstractThe role of internship in the field of criminology cannot be overstated, as they provide invaluable practical training that can shape the potential of aspiring criminologists. This study aims to assess the influence of criminology internship in enhancing the knowledge and skills development of interns. Data was collected from all the 60 criminology interns at Davao de Oro State College. The results of the study indicate that criminology internship has a significant influence in improving the knowledge and skills development of criminology interns. These findings highlight the importance of practical training in the development of criminology interns, as they provide an opportunity for students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The criminology internship program, in conjunction with self-efficacy and experiential learning, has a significant influence on the knowledge and skills development of criminology interns, as reflected in their personal skills development, theoretical knowledge application, and professional skills development.Keywords: Criminology internshipknowledge and skills developmentexperiential learningmentorshipself-efficacy AcknowledgementsThe researchers would like to extend their deepest appreciation and gratitude to the various individuals who contributed to the success of the study. To our Almighty God, for giving us the wisdom, strength, knowledge, and patience to accomplish this research; for helping the researchers surpass all trials they encountered and for giving them the inspiration and determination to do their best in pursuing this research; To the Criminology Department of Davao de Oro State College, the researchers are truly grateful in facilitating this research endeavour. To the Davao de Oro State College Research Ethics Committee (DDOSC REC) for reviewing and approving the research paper. To the Davao de Oro State College (DDOSC), the researchers are privileged to have such opportunity. And lastly, the readers of this study, may you find this study helpful.Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.Additional informationNotes on contributorsJoyce Fe A. LibradillaJoyce Fe A. Libradilla is presently affiliated at Davao de Oro State College as a student in the Bachelor of Science in Criminology program. She has maintained a strong academic record, consistently earning honors from her grade school years through her college studies. In addition to her dedication to academics, Joyce is an active student who successfully manages her involvement in extracurricular activities alongside her coursework. She also possesses a natural inclination for leadership, demonstrated by her role as a College Student Council Officer during the 2022–2023 academic year. Furthermore, Joyce has a history of serving as a leader within various school organizations during her middle school years. She has also actively participated in numerous local-level leadership seminars, further enhancing her leadership skills and knowledge.Cristine E. DaigCristine E. Daig is a diligent and conscientious student who is dedicated to completing her degree. She is affiliated at Davao De Oro State College as a student in the Bachelor of Science in Criminology program. She has been a member of Advance ROTC since 2020. For the academic year 2022–2023, she has the position of Battalion S1, an Advance ROTC officer. She is working as a graduate military assistant (GMA) for the DDOSC Main Campus ROTC Unit at the moment. She works hard for the betterment of the ROTC unit with her buddies. Prior to the position that she currently holds, she participated in several kinds of training programs, including the RSCT (ROTC Summer Camp Training) at the 1103rd Community Defense Center in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, and the ARAPT (Advance ROTC Academic Phase Training) at the 11RCDG Headquarters in Mintal Tugbok, Davao City. She has actively participated in getting things done when they should be done throughout her career. She is currently working harder to get her degree so that she can go on to the next stage of her life, which is life after college.Joy T. MosquiterJoy T. Mosquiter is a dynamic educator who is committed and passionate about teaching and learning. Currently, she is affiliated at Davao De Oro State College. She serves as an Instructor within the Criminology Department and is designated as the Research and Development Section Head at Davao de Oro State College Main Campus. Before her current position, she served as the Criminology Research Coordinator and for the following year as Research Publication and Information Management Section Head. She graduated with a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree, majoring in Mathematics. Also, she earned two Master of Arts in Education, majoring in Mathematics and Educational Administration, with Meritus Award for both master’s degree. Throughout her career, she has actively engaged in professional development by attending and participating in various seminars, trainings, and conferences at the local, regional, and international levels, primarily focusing on research-related activities. She is currently teaching research and Mathematics subjects in the Criminology Department of the college. She provides consultancy to undergraduate student’s studies by serving as their statistician, adviser, or panel member.Rona C. ApolinarioRona C. Apolinario is presently affiliated at Davao de Oro State College and serves as the Branch Director of Montevista Campus, but prior to that she also served as the Research and Extension Head, then the Extension Director of the college. She is a graduate of Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics and Doctor of Philosophy in Development Research Administration. She had attended numerous seminars and conferences in the local, national, and international levels on research and extension, leadership and management, graduate education, and quality assurance. Dr. Apolinario has already published various research internationally in the field of social science and education. She provided consultancy to undergraduate and graduate students’ research in the planning of research design, data collection, and statistical analysis by serving as their adviser or panel member. She is also teaching research and mathematics courses.