Redesigning Automotive Tool: Usability of an Improvised Combination Wrench for Practical Education

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56741/jetia.v1i03.1512


Keywords:

Automotive Tools, TAM’s Model, Technology Education, Wrench

Abstract

The automotive industry's rapid technological shift presents a challenge for vocational education, as traditional tools may not align with modern needs. Thus, this study evaluates the acceptability of an Improvised Combination Wrench (ICW) as a cost-effective instructional tool for automotive technology. Using a mixed-methods approach with 60 participants (students, instructors, and experts) the research assessed the tool's design, functionality, and safety. The findings indicate the ICW is highly acceptable and usable, with high ratings for its functionality (grand mean: 4.60), aesthetics (4.63), and users' safety (4.63). It is consistently perceived the tool as a natural extension of the hand, appreciating its effectiveness, durability, and ergonomic design. However, a significant difference in perception was found among the three user groups (F=166.1522, p<.001), highlighting varied views based on experience. The main challenges identified were a lack of sufficient torque, non-standard sizing, and tool slippage. In conclusion, the ICW is a viable and effective teaching tool despite these limitations. It is recommended that the university formally adopt a standardized, redesigned version of the wrench, with enhancements to address the identified challenges, and implement a comprehensive training module to ensure its proper and safe use in the curriculum.

Author Biographies

Jhon Froy Capuno, Cebu Technological University

is a faculty member of the College of Education at Cebu Technological University (CTU)-Main Campus. He holds National Certificates (NCII) in SMAW and Pipefitting. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology major in Automotive Technology in 2013 and completed his Certificate in Professional Education (CPE) in 2016. He earned a Master in Technician Education major in Automotive Technology in 2018. He has also completed the academic requirements for the degree of Doctorate in Technology Management (Ph.D.-TM) at the same university. (email: jfcapuno28@gmail.com).

Ritchie Gahob, Cebu Technological University

is an Assistant Professor III at Cebu Technological University, Daanbantayan Campus. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management and a Master of Science in Management Engineering. A passionate educator and lifelong learner, she is a Licensed Professional Teacher (LPT) Passer. With years of teaching experience, Ritchie is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and innovation in education. (email: ritchielequigan@gmail.com).

Mailyn Lequigan, Cebu Technological University

is a passionate educator and advocate of continuous learning, serving as an Associate Professor V at Cebu Technological University–Daanbantayan Campus. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management and a Master of Science in Management Engineering. Dedicated to academic excellence, her work focuses on inspiring innovative teaching methodologies and impactful leadership within the university. Her commitment to education, family, and service to others consistently drives her contributions to the institution's success. (email: mailyntoledo14@gmail.com).

Reo Lequigan, Cebu Technological University

is a dedicated educator and lifelong learner, currently serving as an Instructor II at Cebu Technological University–Daanbantayan Campus. He holds a Master of Science in Industrial Technology and is actively pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management at CTU Main Campus. Like his co-authors, he has keen interest in technological innovations. In fact, his commitment to academic excellence contributes to the university's mission and the growth of future technology leaders.  (email: reolequigan1983@gmail.com).

Anaclito Cañon, Cebu Technological University

graduated from the Cebu Technological University (CTU), earning his B.S. in Industrial Technology (Interior Design) in 2017 and his Master in Technician Education (Drafting Technology) in 2023. He is currently engaging his Ph.D. in Technology Management. He began teaching at the CTU College of Technology as a Part-time Instructor in 2023. He became a permanent instructor at the same university in 2024, starting as a part-time instructor in 2023. His worldview stresses that epistemology is uniquely shaped by culture and experience, emphasizing a balanced outlook for self-actualization.  (email: alcanon1992@gmail.com).

Jeffrey Dela Calzada, Cebu Technological University

is an Assistant Professor of Automotive Technology and Technical Education at the College of Technology, Cebu Technological University in Cebu City, Philippines. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management and a Master of Technician Education, major in Automotive, both from the same university. His research focuses on autotronics, automotive technology, and the management of technology in educational and industrial contexts (email: jeffreydela.calzada@ctu.edu.ph).

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Published

2025-11-24

How to Cite

Capuno, J. F., Gahob, R., Lequigan, M., Lequigan, R., Cañon, A., & Dela Calzada, J. (2025). Redesigning Automotive Tool: Usability of an Improvised Combination Wrench for Practical Education. Journal of Educational Technology Innovation and Applications, 1(03), 118–136. https://doi.org/10.56741/jetia.v1i03.1512

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Vol. 1 No. 03 (2025): Journal of Educational Technology Innovation and Applications

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Copyright (c) 2025 Jhon Froy Capuno, Ritchie Gahob, Mailyn Lequigan, Reo Lequigan, Anaclito Cañon, Jeffrey Dela Calzada

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