Socio-Cultural Perceptions of Technology in Regional Vocational Contexts: A Quantitative Analysis in Surigao Del Sur, Philippines

Abstract

The integration of digital tools in regional vocational sectors necessitates an empirical understanding of the intersection between technological efficiency and cultural values. This study examined the perceptions of students in Surigao del Sur (N=100) toward technology as a human and cultural practice across four dimensions: vocational utility, cultural synergy, inherent risks, and identity impact. Utilizing a quantitative cross-sectional design and a 5-point Likert scale instrument, the study assessed the level of technological acceptance within a culturally dense, rural-urban transitional zone. Results indicated a high level of receptivity toward technology in vocational practices (AWM = 4.234) and a strong perceived synergy between traditional knowledge and modern automation (AWM = 4.228). However, respondents documented measured concerns regarding technology-induced deskilling and the erosion of cultural identity (AWM = 3.676). Inferential analysis revealed that occupation significantly influenced perceptions of vocational utility (p=0.007) and cultural synergy (p=0.003), while educational attainment significantly affected the perception of risks (p=0.023). The study concludes that while technology is viewed as an essential instrument for economic advancement, its acceptance in regional contexts is contingent upon its alignment with community values. These findings suggest a requirement for culturally responsive vocational training that balances digital proficiency with the preservation of tactile, ancestral knowledge.