Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education

in the Philippines
Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education (BTTE) is a four year ladderized degree
program that provides students with the knowledge and skills to teach technical
vocational courses like Automotive, Electrical, Civil and Drafting technology, Food
and Service Management and many more. It aims to equip students with strong
theoretical understanding of teaching and technology.
The Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education program inculcates in students a deep
understanding of the teaching and learning principles and theories needed in
teaching technical vocational courses. It also discusses how the educational
processes relate to larger historical, social, cultural and political processes.
Generally, the programs curriculum is filled with education subjects thus graduates
of this program are allowed to take the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).
Once graduates of the BTTE program pass the LET, they can teach in academic
institutions specifically in elementary, secondary and collegiate levels. Home
Economics and Livelihood Education (HELE), Technology and Livelihood Education
(TLE), Agricultural Technology (AgriTech), Practical Arts (PracArts) and Computer
Technology (ComTech) are just some of the subjects that graduates can teach.
Graduates of the BTTE program may also teach in the Technical Education and Skills
Development Authority (TESDA) as well as in vocational schools, private and
livelihood training centers and charitable institutions who aim to train the oppressed
sectors of society to develop specific skills that they can use to earn money and
become financially independent. The subjects that they will teach will mainly
depend on the field of specialization that they chose.

Areas of Specialization

Automotive Technology the design, construction and operation of motor,

engines and automobiles.

Electronics Technology concerned with the development, behavior, and

applications of electronic devices and circuits.

Electrical Technology the design and development of high-voltage systems

and components such as motors, generators, heaters, electrical power transmission
and distribution systems, radio wave and optical systems, converters, and control
systems for operating light and heavy machinery.

Food and Service Management the application of food science to the

selection, preservation, processing, packaging, distribution, and use of safe food.

Drafting Technology the systematic representation and dimensional

specification of mechanical and architectural structures.

Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Technology develop the skills

and knowledge of students in many aspects of the HVAC industry, which include the
installation and servicing of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration
systems for residential and commercial applications.

Mechanical Technology introduces the student to the principles, materials,

and equipment of mechanical technology. Emphasis is placed on drafting, design,
and an understanding of basic machine components.

Welding and Fabrication Technology teaches students the fabrication or

sculptural process that joins materials, usually metals or thermoplastics

Civil Technology teaches students skills in the development of designs and

drawings from preliminary concepts and sketches, prepare construction
specifications, cost and material estimates, project schedules and reports.

Garments, Fashion and Design involves lessons that provide students with
the knowledge in the inspection and analysis of fabrics, materials and methods
used in the production of clothing.

Two Models of the BTTE Program

o

Model A offered to high school graduates.

Model B offered to the graduates of the two year Trade Technical Curriculum
and the Three-year Diploma of Technology Program in different areas of

specialization, who have at least one year industry experience aside from the
industry immersion/OJT.

Ladderized Curriculum
Being a ladderized course, students who successfully complete each year level and
pass the TESDA Competency Assessment shall be issued the National Certificate
(NC) on that particular level. These certificates will depend on the area of
specialization that a student will choose to study.
Automotive Technology:

o
o

1st to 3rd year: Certificate as Auto Service Technician

Electronics Technology:

o
o

1st to 3rd year: Certificate in Electronics Technology

Electrical Technology:

o
o

1st year: Certificate in Building Wiring Installation

2nd year: Certificate in Automation and Mechatronics

3rd year: Certificate in Graphics/Commercial Arts with computer

application
Food and Service Management:

o
o

1st year: Certificate in Food Selection and Preparation, Food Processing,

packaging and labelling and meal management

2nd year: Certificate in Advanced Baking and International Cuisine,

Bartending and bar set-up
Drafting Technology:

o
o

1st year: Certificate in Machine Drafting, Basic Auto-CAD 2-D

2nd year: Certificate in Architectural Drafting and Design

3rd year: Certificate in Air Duct Servicing

Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Technology:

o
o

1st year: Certificate in Refrigeration and Air-conditioning (RAC) Servicing

2nd year: Certificate in Transport Refrigeration and Air-conditioning (RAC)

Servicing

3rd year: Certificate in Graphics/Commercial Arts with computer

application

Mechanical Technology:

1st to 3rd year: Certificate in Machining

Welding and Fabrication Technology:

o
o

1st year: Certificate in Shielded Metal Arc Wedding (SMAW)

2nd year: Certificate in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)

Civil Technology:

o
o

1st year: Certificate in Carpentry, Scaffold Erection and Masonry

2nd year: Certificate in Plumbing, Tile Setting, Finishing Carpentry and

Construction Painting
3rd year: Certificate in Construction Management

Garments, Fashion and Design:

1st to 3rd year: Certificate in Dressmaking

Subjects and Curriculum

The subjects and requirements in the BTTE curriculum are divided into the following
categories:
General Education courses: Language and Humanities Cluster, Mathematics,

Computer and Natural Science Cluster, Social Sciences Cluster, Mandated Subjects
Professional Courses:

o
o

Theory and Concepts: Adolescent Psychology, Facilitating Learning,

Social Dimensions of Education, The Teaching Profession including the Code of
Ethics, Curriculum Development (Project Planning and Development)

Methods and Strategies of Teaching Technology: Principles of

Teaching, Strategies of Teaching, Educational Technology, Assessment of
Student Learning, Career Guidance and Counselling
Specialization Courses:

o
o

Automotive Technology: Internal Combustion Engine Servicing, Repair

and Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance and Gas/Diesel Engine Tune-up,
Automotive Body Electrical System Service, Repair and Maintenance,
Underchassis Components, Automotive Air-conditioning System, Motorcycle and
Small Engine Servicing, Engine Overhauling

Electronics Technology: Basic Electronics, Digital Electronics, Audio

System Repair and Maintenance, Cellular Phone Repair, Video System Repair,
Instrumentation Troubleshoot

Electrical Technology: Fundamentals of Electricity, Electrical and

Electronics Circuits and Devices, Electrical Wiring System and Design, Signal
and Communication System, DC Machine, AC Machine, Logic Circuit Controller,
Pneumatic and Hydraulic application

Food and Service Management: Occupation Health and Safety

Practices, Food Selection and Preparation, Meal Management, Food Processing,
Packaging and Labelling, Basic Baking, Advance Baking, International Cuisine,
Cafeteria and Catering Management, Quantity Cookery, Bartending and Bar
set-up

Drafting Technology: Drafting Fundamentals and theory of design, Basic

Auto-CAD 2-D application, Machine Drafting using Auto-CAD, Architectural
drafting and design, Building technology and Utilities, Construction Estimates
and Scale Modelling,

Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Technology:

Instrumentation and Control Devices, Domestic Refrigeration and Airconditioning Electrical Circuits, Soldering, Welding and Joining Operations,
Commercial Refrigeration, Mobile Refrigeration, Refrigeration Plant Designing,
Heat Pump Operation

Mechanical Technology: Basic Machine Tools, Bench Work, Lathe

Machine Operations, Heat Treatment, Milling Machine Operations, Grinding
Machine Operations, Tool and Die Making, Blueprint Reading,

Welding and Fabrication Technology: Metal Testing and Heat

Treatment Process, Basic Shielding Metal Arc Welding Process, Oxy Acetylene
Welding, Cutting and Brazing, Gas Metal Arc Welding, Pipe Fitting,

Civil Technology: Occupational Health and Safety, National Building

Code, Rough Carpentry, Rebar Works, Rough Masonry, Elementary Surveying,
Plumbing, Finishing Masonry, Finishing Carpentry, Construction Surveying,
Construction Estimating, Analysis of Building Structure, Construction Painting,
Construction Management

Garments, Fashion and Design: Fabric and Garment Designing

Techniques, Basic Sewing Processes, Mens Garments Construction, Pattern
Grading and Marker Making

Industry Immersion (OJT)

Practice Teaching

Special Research Topic/Project

The lessons in the BTTE program are taught to students in a variety of teaching
methods. They will spend most of their time inside the classroom listening to
lectures, doing hands-on exercises and visiting different vocational and livelihood
agencies where they will be able to observe firsthand different tasks related to their
chosen industry. From time to time seminars and educational talks will be scheduled
for students to attend. These kinds of activities will give keep the students up-todate with current trends and practices.

Is Technical Teaching a profession?

If a graduate takes the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) and passes he/she
becomes a Licensed Teacher. He/she may be employed as Trainer of Industry-based
training centers, Instructor for Technical Schools, Teacher of Technological Livelihood
and vocational courses and many more. Being a Licensed Teacher is considered a
profession because it requires a specific set of knowledge and skills as well as a
licensure examination.
BTTE graduates who do not go on to become teachers, can be employed in a variety
of technical jobs that relate to their field of specialization. Technician jobs are
considered professions, however there are also less specialized jobs like machinist
and operators which are not considered to be professions.

What are the admission requirements for the

BTTE program?
Aside from the general admission requirements, the two types of models for the
BTTE program have specific admission requirements. Requirements at each school
may differ, but these are the mandated requirements according to CHED.
Admission requirements for High School students:

o
o

Must be a high school graduate.

Those who did not complete high school education may opt to first attend
Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational

Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college. However, some universities only
offer selected courses for PEPT passers
o

College entrance exam: must pass the college entrance examination

with a specified rating set by the school.

General Weighted Average (GWA): the high school graduate must

have a specified grade point average as reflected in his/her form 138.

Interview: must pass the interview conducted by the college.

Admission requirements for Technology Diploma holders:

o
o

Full-fledged Technician: to be admitted to the BTTE program model B,

an applicant must be a graduate of a two year Trade Technical Curriculum or a
three-year Diploma of Technology Program in different areas of specialization,
or any other Technical Vocational course.

One year work/industry experience: must have at least one year

industry experience, aside from the industry immersion/OJT.

Grade average in technical subjects: the technician candidate must

have obtained the specified grade average in his technical subjects.

National Certification (NC): for an applicant to be admitted, he/she

must have been awarded as third class (NCIII) certified technician by TESDA.

Completed the general education requirements: the applicant must

have satisfied the minimum general education requirements. In case the
applicant lacks units in general education, bridging subjects should be taken by
the applicant to fulfill the general education requirements.

(See sources 1, 2)

What skills, traits and attitude will help you

succeed in this course?
o

Strong Technical Skills the knowledge and ability to learn, operate and
control properly and safely an extensive range of equipment, tools and systems
used in the field.

Basic Mathematical skills knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry,

calculus, statistics, and their applications; during practicum exercises you may be

asked to calculate certain things so that you can accurately create or fix something
so basic knowledge of math is important
o

Analytical skills the ability to determine how a system should work and how
changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes

Problem solving skills the ability to identify complex problems and review
related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions; fixing
different equipment, machines and other electronic objects can be very tricky, you
need to know the order on how to fix things, how to diagnose and identify
mechanical problems and return parts to where they should be.

Detail Oriented the ability to notice and identify even the most minute
problems in a system, process or equipment

Quick Thinker picks up and understands instructions easily; able to execute

tasks in a fast and efficient way

Comfortable in public speaking this is an advantage for those who wish to

become teachers or instructors.

Able to establish authority this is an advantage for those who wish to

become teachers or instructors.

Good communicator the ability to proficiently speak and write English and
convey information to students that is easy to understand.

Reading Comprehension understanding written sentences and paragraphs in

work related documents; since you will Practice Teach, you must be able to
understand English very well to interpret correctly what youve read in books and
other sources.

Computer Literacy basic knowledge of computer use and being able to

understand application software used in creating models of designs and systems

Planning skills the ability to organize and prioritize activities/tasks effectively;

must be able to think of ways on how to do a job efficiently

Patience during practicum exercises, you will not always be able to identify
and fix the problem in a machine or equipment right away so you have to extend
your patience and continue working; understands student behavior, avoids temper
flares and finds possible solutions to unpleasant situations. Also during the during
the Field Practice you will be assigned in different agencies where the work involved
is time consuming and will involve manual labor thus patience is very essential

How difficult is the Bachelor of Technical

Teacher Education program?
Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education is not considered a difficult course. The
program is a combination of Technology and Education thus students have to study
a variety of subjects. Aside from an interest in fixing and repairing things, you also
need to have a flare in teaching. During the entire span of the course, you will have
alternating classroom discussions and hands on or practicum exercises. During your
hands on exercises, you will be asked to repair machines, engines and many more;
you will get dirty and smeared so you have to be able to accept this kind of work.
It does not contain a lot of Mathematics or Science subjects; however, there are
many education subjects that you must read and understand thoroughly so that you
can apply it in your practice teaching. You have to remember different techniques
and methods where your memory will greatly be tested.
One of the most challenging parts of the program is accomplishing two sets of
Practicum, one is an Industry Immersion and the other is Practice Teaching. To add
up to this, you also need to make a special research project.

How long does it take to complete the BTTE

program in the Philippines?
The BTTE program takes four years to complete. The program may also be
completed in less than 4 years for schools who follow a trimestral curriculum.

Field Practicum
A student of the BTTE program needs to complete two sets of Field Practicum.
o

Industry Immersion
Under the Industry Immersion, students will be assigned in different agencies and
companies related to their specific field of study. During the Industry Immersion,

students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and practice their skills
in actual settings. The immersion program is done under the supervision of a
designated authority in the establishment/office which will evaluate the student
periodically and submit the evaluation form to the assigned faculty member. The
Industry Immersion is offered in the fourth year of the BTTE program.
o

Practice Teaching
Practice Teaching is the culmination of the teacher preparation process. Students
may be assigned in Elementary and Secondary Schools, Colleges/Universities or in
Vocational Institutions where they are given the opportunity to apply their
knowledge and practice their skills in actual classes.

The practice teaching program is done under the supervision of a faculty member
as well as the advisory teacher. Formal and informal classroom observations are
conducted regularly. Among the requirements of practice teaching are the creation
of plans for classroom management and instruction.
The number of hours required for both Practicums varies from one school to
another.
(See source)

Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET)

Graduates of the BTTE program can still be employed even if they do not take the
LET, however, for those who would like to teach in secondary schools,
colleges/universities and vocational institutions; they need to pass the Licensure
Examination for Teachers (LET).
The examination is conducted by the Board of Professional Teachers under the
supervision of the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC). There are three
categories of subjects included in the exam: General Education (20%), Professional
Education (40%) and the Field of Specialization (40%).
To pass the examination an examinee must obtain an average rating of not less
than 75% and must have no rating lower than 50% in any of the tests. The results of

the board examination are usually released 1 to 2 months after the exam.

Career opportunities for Bachelor of Technical

Teacher Education graduates
Teaching jobs

Graduates of the BTTE program who are LET passers can teach different fields in
technical education. These are the most common positions they can be employed
in.
o

High School Teacher teaching Technology and Livelihood Education

(TLE), Agricultural Technology (AgriTech), Practical Arts (PracArts) and
Computer Technology (ComTech)

Elementary School Teacher teaching Home Economics and Livelihood

Education (HELE) and Computer Education

Vocational Teacher

Technical Instructor

College/University Professor teaching Technical Education or

Industrial Education. This may require a Masters degree.

Technical jobs related to the BTTE program:

o
o

Mechanic repair and maintain almost any machinery or device by using

their advanced knowledge about functioning of many systems.

Machinist set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce

precision parts and instruments; includes precision instrument makers who
fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments.

Technician help create, maintain and repair the electronic components

and equipment used in any equipment or device that involves electricity.

Operator work with heavy machinery from setup to operation. Machine

operators might work with computer-controlled equipment or more
mechanically based machines to make sure they are set up properly, working
well, and producing quality product.

Fabricator responsible for assembling finished products using tools,

machines, and their own hands. Fabricates various types of products.

Industrial Technician plans and coordinates production activities to

ensure that production runs smoothly and stays within budget.

Mechatronics Technician apply their knowledge of engineering to

solve technical problems and maintain automated mechanical equipment. This
may entail inspecting, troubleshooting and repairing electrical and electronic
components.

Pneumatic and Hydraulic Technician also known as hydraulic

mechanics, work in industrial settings where they install, repair and maintain
hydraulic equipment and machinery, such as lifts, cranes and forklifts.

Instrumentation Technician install, maintain and repair the measuring

and control devices used in industrial and commercial processing.

Food Technician check production processes and product quality, and

undertake maintenance and basic repair of equipment.

Safety Food Controller monitors compliance with quality standards on

production floor to ensure product conforms to specification and food safety
practices and assist in documentation involving Food Safety and Good
Manufacturing Practices.

Heat Pump Installer/Technician install and maintain systems that

control the temperature, humidity, air flow and air filtering in all types of
buildings.

Drafter use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects

into technical drawings and plans.

Robotics Technician build, install, test, or maintain robotic equipment

or related automated production systems.

Land Survey technologists adjust and operate land surveying

instruments, such as the theodolite and electronic distance-measuring
equipment, and compile notes, make sketches and enter data into computers.

Highway Technician inspect project site and evaluate contractor work

to detect design malfunctions and ensure conformance to design specifications
and applicable codes.

Welding Inspector performs visual inspections and tests on welded

steel pieces to be used in the construction of buildings, bridges and other
structures.

Safety coordinator plan and execute the site safety function

requirements; implement preventive measure and recommend improvement on
the unsafe conditions/material/equipment

Site supervisor oversees and manages all aspects of a construction

site. This can include preparing budgets, hiring team members, and handling
all logistical and operations duties.
Project Manager, Construction responsible for the planning,

management, co-ordination and financial control of a construction project.

Quality assurance technician tests and inspects products and parts in

a manufacturing environment to ensure the quality of the product.

Production manager responsible for the technical management,

supervision and control of industrial production processes.

Operations manager ensures the day to day operations of a

construction project.

Career Opportunities Abroad

Graduates of technical college programs are in demand abroad. The skilled workers
sector is highly in demand in foreign countries such as the Middle East, Canada,
Australia and Singapore. Filipinos are usually employed in foreign countries as
welders, iron worker, machinist, machine operators and similar low level jobs,
however these jobs usually pay higher than midlevel and advanced positions in the
Philippines.
(See sources 1, 2)

Salary Levels

A degree in Technical Education can lead to a variety of jobs; examples of these

jobs include working as a Technician, Machinist and Teacher. The monthly salaries
for these types of jobs are as follows:
Technician

o
o

Fresh Grad / < 1 Year Experienced Employee: P 8,000 to P 12,000

1-4 Years Experienced Employee: P 10,000 to P 15,000

Supervisor / 5 Years & Up Experienced Employee: P 15,000 to P

23,000

Assistant Manager / Manager: P 15,000 to P 30,000

(see source)
Machinist

o
o

1-4 Years Experienced Employee: P 10,000 to P 18,000

(see source)
o

Teacher

Fresh Grad / < 1 Year Experienced Employee: P 8,000 to P 12,000

1-4 Years Experienced Employee: P 10,000 to P 17,000

Supervisor / 5 Years & Up Experienced Employee: P 16,000 to P

22,000

Assistant Manager / Manager: P 20,000 to P 30,000

(see source)