24th Joint Multidisciplinary Research Conference Delegate | Future Educator | AAIRI Emerging Researcher
From Pandemic Classrooms to Purpose-Driven Research
For Renalyn Hernandez Gallardo, a Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) student from Bestlink College of the Philippines, resilience was never optional—it was essential. She began her college journey at the height of a global pandemic, navigating online classes, on-the-job training, and the demanding requirements of academic research all at once.
“Conducting research while managing fieldwork taught me not just time management, but grit,” Renalyn reflects. “It pushed me to think beyond the classroom toward how I can actually make learning better for children.”
While many struggled to adapt, Renalyn leaned into the challenge. What began as a requirement became a mission: to transform the learning experience for young students in meaningful and measurable ways.
Making Multiplication Meaningful
At the 24th Joint Multidisciplinary Research Conference (24JMRC), Renalyn presented her research titled “Arcademics E-Materials in Multiplication of Whole Numbers of Grade 4 Learners.”
Her study explored the use of Arcademics, an online educational platform that gamifies math practice. Instead of relying solely on traditional drills and worksheets, Renalyn introduced interactive digital tools that transformed multiplication into an engaging, competitive, and enjoyable activity.
The results were compelling. Students exposed to Arcademics showed significant improvement in their multiplication skills. More than that, they demonstrated enthusiasm—raising their hands faster, participating more actively, and expressing genuine excitement during math sessions.
“The joy on the children’s faces during our sessions was unforgettable,” she shares. “They were learning and having fun while doing it.”
Turning Challenges into Breakthroughs
Research is rarely a smooth path. Renalyn had to secure approvals, conduct interventions, gather data, and prepare for her final defense—all while fulfilling academic and fieldwork responsibilities.
“The biggest challenge was time,” she admits. “But I overcame it through planning, patience, and trusting the process.”
Her defining moment came not during her defense, but inside the classroom—watching her students light up with confidence as they mastered multiplication through interactive play. It affirmed what she had begun to believe: technology, when used intentionally, can revolutionize foundational learning.
On the Global Stage
Renalyn’s dedication carried her beyond local academic halls to the international platform of the 24JMRC in Kuala Lumpur. Presenting before scholars and educators from different countries was both intimidating and inspiring.
“It was nerve-racking to present to such a distinguished international audience,” she recalls, “but also deeply fulfilling.”
One session that deeply resonated with her was a talk on AI in education by Dr. Mohamad Firdaus Ahmad. The discussion broadened her perspective on how emerging technologies can reshape not only mathematics instruction but the entire educational ecosystem.
It was a powerful reminder that classroom innovation in the Philippines can contribute to global conversations on digital transformation.
A Future Built on Gamified Learning
Renalyn’s journey does not end with multiplication. She plans to expand her research into other foundational subjects and dive deeper into gamified and tech-enhanced learning strategies.
“I want to help build a more engaging and effective classroom, especially in early education,” she says.
Her long-term vision is clear: to produce research that influences teaching strategies in both public and private schools—and to inspire fellow educators to embrace innovation rather than fear it.
“I want to help shift traditional teaching methods toward more student-centered, tech-integrated approaches that inspire curiosity and confidence.”
— Renalyn Gallardo
Growing with AAIRI
Renalyn credits the Ascendens Asia International Research Institute (AAIRI) for opening doors she once thought were beyond reach.
“AAIRI gave me the opportunity to present my research on an international platform—something I never imagined possible,” she shares. “It boosted my confidence and showed me how far I can go with my ideas.”
Beyond conferences, she sees institutions like AAIRI as catalysts for mentorship, collaboration, and scholarly growth—especially for emerging researchers who need guidance, exposure, and a supportive academic community.
As AAIRI continues to connect educators, researchers, and institutions across borders, stories like Renalyn’s remind us that innovation often begins in the most unexpected places—a Grade 4 classroom, a digital game, a young educator who dared to try something new.
A Message to Aspiring Educators and Researchers
“To every aspiring educator and young researcher out there, your ideas matter. With the right support, persistence, and purpose, you can make a difference in how future generations learn and grow.”
And perhaps that is the heart of this story: when research meets purpose, and innovation meets opportunity, transformation follows.
If you are ready to take your research to the next level—whether as a presenter, collaborator, or member—AAIRI invites you to be part of a growing community shaping the future of education through research and digital innovation.
For more information on upcoming research events and collaborations, stay connected with Ascendens Asia International Research Institute.
Email: connect@aairi.org
WhatsApp: +63 (976) 413 1096
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