development of a voting advice application (vaa) system
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DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION (VAA)
SYSTEM
___________________________
A Thesis
Presented to the
Faculty of the College of Computer Studies
Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University
___________________________
In partial fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor in Science of Information Technology
___________________________
By
Legamia, Don Daniel D.
Ortanez, Rolly O.
Panopio, Charles R.
April 2013
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DON HONORIO VENTURA TECHNOLOGICAL STATE UNIVERSITY
APPROVAL SHEET
This thesis entitled DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION
(VAA) SYSTEM, prepared and submitted by Don Daniel D. Legamia, Rolly O.
Ortanez and Charles B. Panopio, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, has been examined and found
in order and hereby recommended for acceptance and approval for the ORAL
EXAMINATION.
BENIGNO P. LEGAMIA, JR. Ph.D JOEL T. YAMBAO
Adviser Adviser
THESIS COMMITTEE
JULIETA M. UMALI, MSITChairman
ANICIA L. FERRER, MSITCo-Chairman
PANEL OF EXAMINERS
Approved by the committee on Oral Examination with a grade of _________ on
____________________,
ALZIEN S. MALONZO
Chairman
RUBY ROSE N. PUNO HILENE E. HERNANDEZMember Member
Accept and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor
of Science in Information Technology.
JULIETA M. UMALI, MSITThesis Chairman
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
For the completion of this study, we gratefully acknowledge with utmost
gratefulness and earnestness the support, guidance, cooperation and inspiration extended
by the ensuing persons:
To Alzien S. Malonzo, Chairman of Panel of Examiners and his members,
namely: Ruby Rose N. Puno and Hilene E. Hernandez for their venerated and expert
comments that greatly enhanced this study;
To Mr. Joel T. Yambao and Dr. Benigno P. Legamia, Jr., our advisers for their
untiring supports and guidance;
To Ms. Julieta M. Umali and Ms. Anicia L. Ferrer, Thesis Committee Chairman
and co-Chairman, respectively for their valuable pieces of advice and constant
encouragement throughout the course of this thesis.
To our dear teachers for imparting their knowledge and great contribution to our
intellectual development;
To our parents, Dr. and Mrs. Benigno P. Legamia, Jr,Mr. and Mrs.Rainier C.
Panopio, and Mrs.Ronald O. Ortanez, who are always around 24/7 to inspire, pray,
understand and encourage us to achieve our goals in life;
Finally, to the Lord Almighty, true God and Redeemer of the World, for his
spiritual blessings.
The Proponents:
Legamia, Don Daniel D.
Ortanez, Rolly O.
Panopio, Charles R.
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ABSTRACT
Students are having hard time choosing candidates to vote for during the scheduled
annual election of University Student Council (USC) officers. This problem can be
attributed to lack of knowledge or information about the candidates personal attributes
and platform of government. This prompted the proponents to conduct a technology
generated research which aimed to design, develop and implement an online system
called Voting Advice Application that will help voters engage in a variety of online
political activities, including: acquiring and sharing political information; participating in
online discussions of political issues; mobilizing others to vote and participate in offline
activities.
In this study, the proponents employed varied means of getting information
which include internet surfing and reading of available references in the library. They
also gathered data by way of administering survey instruments to selected students across
all colleges of the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University (DHVTSU) to
determine the effectiveness and reliability of the existing poll system made use of during
the exercise of the annual election of USC officers.
Descriptive method of research was used for this study where data analyzed yielded
to the need for designing the Voting Advice Application System which will be of great
help for the entire students voting population.
Lastly, the proposed system was developed with the use of Dreamweaver for the
web-based part and MySQL for the database.
.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE . i
APPROVAL SHEET . ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT . iii
ABSTRACT . iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS . v
LIST OF TABLES . viii
LIST OF FIGURES . ix
Chapter Page
1. THE PROBLEM AND REVIEW OF RELATED
LITERATURE............. 1
Introduction .............. 1
1.2 Background of the Study .... 3
1.3 Review of Related Literature 4
1.3.1 Foreign Literature 4
1.3.2 Local Literature 8
1.4 Conceptual Framework . 10
1.5 Statement of the Problem . 11
1.5.1 General Problem... 11
1.5.2Specific Problems .... 12
1.6 Objectives of the Study .........12
1.6.1 General Objective .... 12
1.6.2 Specific Objectives ... 13
1.7 Assumptions .. 13
1.8 Significance of the Study . 14
1.8.1 Economic Significance . 14
1.8.2 Educational Significance . 14
1.8.3 Technological Significance .. 14
1.8.4 Social Significance ... 15
1.9 Scope and Delimitations .. 15
1.10 Operational Definition of Terms.. 16
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2. METHODOLOGY ... 17
2.1 Type of Research .. 17
2.2 Respondents of the Study . 17
2.3 Sampling Technique and Procedures.18
2.4 Research Instruments ....18
2.4.1 Questionnaires.18
2.4.2 Internet Research.18
2.4.3 Library Research ...19
2.4.4 Internet Research.19
2.5 Administration of the Instrument .. 19
2.6 Analysis of Data..19
2.7 Methods Used in Developing the System...19
2.7.1 Planning Phase ..19
2.7.2 Analysis Phase..20
2.7.3 Design Phase .20
2.7.4 Implementation Phase . 20
2.7.5 Operation and Support Phase ...20
2.8 Methods Used for System Evaluation .. 21
2.8.1 Economic Feasibility ... 21
2.8.2 Operational Feasibility.. 21
2.8.3 Technical Feasibility .... 21
2.9 Statistical Treatment of Data .... 22
3. RESULT AND DISCUSSION ..... 26
3.1 Assessment of the Existing System .. 26
3.2 Attitude of the Customers towards the
Existing System ...... 30
3.3 Existing System Capability . 30
3.4 System Improvement Suggestions ... 30
3.5 Technological Preparedness of the Company ... 31
3.5.1 Problem Statement . 31
3.5.2 Data Requirements .. 32
3.5.3 Transaction Requirements . 32
3.5.4 Requirement Specification. 32
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4. DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED SYSTEM .. 33
4.1 ENTITY-RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM (ERD) . 33
4.1.1 Initial ERD of the Proposed System .. 33
4.1.2 Final ERD of the Proposed System .. 34
4.2 DATA FLOW DIAGRAM (DFD) . 34
4.2.1 Data Flow Diagram of the Existing System. 34
4.2.2 Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed System..
4.3 Hardware and Software Specification
4.4 System Architecture
4.5 Prototype Process
4.6 Cost and Benefit Analysis
5. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMEMENDATIONS. 67
5.1 Summary . 67
5.2 Conclusions...... 69
5.3 Recommendations.... 70
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
CURRICULUM VITAE
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APPENDICES
Appendix A Gantt Chart
Appendix B Letters
Appendix C Organizational Chart
Appendix D Interview Guide Questions
Appendix E Questionnaires
Appendix F Evaluation Form
Appendix G DFD and ERD Symbols
Appendix H User Manual
Appendix I Sample Source Code
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LIST OF TABLES
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LIST OF FIGURES
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Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND A REVIEW RELATED LITERATURE
Introduction
Every year, the students of the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State
University (DHVTSU) convene to exercise their right to vote for their representatives in
the University Students Council (USC). Said organization of students is believed to be a
very powerful structure and a potent voice that protects and takes care of the general
welfare of studentry. In factuality, elected USC President will automatically occupy one
seat in the Board of Regents (BOR) as Student Regent and a member of the University
Administrative Council bringing along with him collective issues and concerns that
affects his members.
With the critical tasks and responsibilities to be entrusted onto the shoulder of
USC officers, a voter must be properly informed of the candidates background,
personality and platform of government as basis for making the best choice comes
election day.
As a practice, few months before the scheduled election, candidates will be very
busy with their usual way of selling themselves to the electorates. Campaigning is a
critical component of any type of election, be it school poll or higher level political
elections where the candidates attempt to win the hearts or alter the decisions of the
students so they will be supported and consequently gets higher polls and wins elections.
Campaigning comes in varied forms and styles depending on the available
resources of the candidates, like financial, manpower, political machinery and
connections, among others. It can be through the use of expensive mass media like the
TV or radio advertisement, broadsheets, cable TV, and the like. Others use tarpaulins,
streamers, flyers, stickers, and other low-cost personalized items bearing their pictures
and names.
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Nevertheless with the present technologies at hand, considered most popular
medium for campaigning activities is the use of cell phones and the Internet. Through the
existing Web applications, individuals are able to engage in a variety of online political
activities, including acquiring and sharing political information, participating in onlinediscussions of political issues, mobilizing others to vote wisely, participating in offline
activities, as well as donating to political campaigns and organizations.
Students, regardless of age and levels, are very much inclined in online system to
get information about any topic of their interest. One hundred percent of DHVTSU
students are believed to be computer literates and enjoy the benefits of internet services to
facilitate their research undertakings and getting closer and updated with other people and
friends around the world and become apprised on the trends and issues affecting their
lives, their families and the country as well. Therefore, introduction of an online system
called Voting Advice Application will definitely be acceptable to them and eventually
help them become actively involved in the university electoral process.
The Voting Advice Application System to be introduced will match the voter to
the party or candidate based on his answered questions onpreferred candidates platform
of government. Voting advice will then appear consisting of a list of candidates whose
platform closely match the voters choice. This system will undoubtedly create new and
better alternative way of holding and managing electoral process that will benefit the
entire students of DHVTSU.
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1.2 Background of the Study
The use of internet greatly influenced the learning and lifestyles of peoples from
all walks of life, most especially the students, around the world. It spurred economic
growth through the use of e-commerce, it improves communication system making one
closer to the whole world, enhanced instruction through uploaded scholarly research
papers, and supplemented the limited books and other reference materials available in the
university library making it lighter for students to do research works, among others.
Taking advantage of this popular online technology among the students of
DHVTSU, development and introduction of a localized system of Voting Advice
Application will be a welcome treat for them and for the university as well, particularly
the Office of Students Affairs (OSA) being responsible for conducting, managing and
supervising electoral process during the annual election of students council members.
At present, the existing electoral system is still wanting for more effective method
that will make the entire studentry actively involved in the election process especially in
gaining information about the candidates blueprint of government as basis for choosing
the most qualified leaders. Traditional system of campaigning is still being used by the
candidates, like conducting classroom presentation of selves and plans, distributing cheap
flyers and posting campaign posters in conspicuous or strategic areas within the
university campus. These strategies are found not so effective since limited time and
opportunity are given to voters for them to know the candidates well. This often results
to uneducated voting where candidates belonging to a bigger college win the political
race over the most qualified who failed to sell himself and his vision for the students due
to limited time and strategies.
The Voting Advice Application will address this problem. This online tool or
system will help voters gain political information and make decisions. It will influence
the way voters think about politics and their electoral choice. It will be of great help for
the OSA to ensure higher level and more educated involvement of students in the
university electoral process.
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1.3 Related Literature
This part contains reviewed related literature which provide the researchers with
a theoretical background of information on what is already known on the area of interest
and what still needs to be done for the research undertaking.
1.3.1 Foreign Literature
Research about Voting Advice Application (VAA) focused on the effects of this
tool on voting behavior resorts to general debates and trends within electoral studies. The
erosion of traditional social cleavages and the resulting weakening of long-established
partisan alignments have resulted in a progressive individualization of vote choices
implying an increased likelihood to cast a vote based primarily on issue preferences.
Indeed, previous VAA research has found that a significant proportion of VAA users are
motivated to go to the elections and willing to move their vote in accordance with the
advice obtained (Ladner et al., 2010; Marschall and Schmidt, 2010; Ruusuvirta and
Rosema, 2009; Walgrave et al., 2008). However, the findings presented in these studies
diverge dramatically in their estimates of the importance of VAAs to users.
The significant differences in the findings regarding VAA effects on voter
turnout and electoral choice might be based on the respective political context in which
the VAAs were applied, but could also be explained by the fact that the empirical VAA
research so far has not followed common standards. A lack of standardization in the field
to date means that the items used to elicit estimates of VAAs influence vary substantially
across national case studies. As a result, estimates of percentages of users who feel that
their participation in the election as well as their eventual decision was influenced by
their visit to a VAA range from a low of 1 percent in the Belgian case to a high of 67
percent in the Swiss case ( Cedroni and Garzia, 2010).
A further complication stems from the inherent endogeneity within users
subjective evaluations of the influence exerted by VAA-usage. The great majority of
these studies rely on post-test questionnaires administered to users right after playing the
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test. Modeling VAA effects based on these sources, however, can lead to severe biases in
terms of estimated individual level effects. The individuals of these samples have not
only self-selected themselves to becoming VAA users but they have also deliberately
decided to take part in the post-test survey. As a result, chances are that they might endup with a sample of highly enthusiastic and convinced VAA users who report different
effects of the tool on their electoral behavior than if they had the chance to survey a
representative sample of voters using VAAs.
Being subject to a heavy self-selection bias, this kind of data can overestimate to
a substantial extent the actual effect exerted by VAA-usage on the participation in
elections and the voting decision. As Walgrave et al. (2008) demonstrated, the reported
intention in post-test surveys to change vote choice in accordance with the VAA does not
always match with actual changes in voting behavior.
Voting Advice Applications have turned into a widespread feature of electoral
campaigns in Europe, attracting a growing interest from citizens. VAAs help users
casting a vote by comparing their policy preferences on major issues with the
programmatic stands of political parties or candidates on these policies. The mechanism
employed is rather straightforward: the respondents fill in a web-questionnaire marking
their position on a range of policies; after comparing the users profile with that of each
party, the application produces a result in the form of a rank-ordered list, at the top of
which stands the party/candidate closest to the users policy preferences.
According to Walgrave et al. (2008), in 2007 there was (at least) one Voting Advice
Application running in 15 countries out of the 22 they surveyed. In some countries,
VAAs have developed into outstandingly popular tools. As far as data were providedbythe organizations offering VAAs, the Dutch Stemwijzer in the national elections of
2006 can be considered the most successful implementation of a VAA so far, which
taken by the numbers of its usages (e.g., 4.7 million) might have reached about 38 per
cent of the Dutch electorate (de Graaf, 2010). In absolute numbers, the German Wahl-O-
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Mat Implementen before the federal election in 2009 has been used by the largest number
of users ever: 6.7 million (Marschall and Schmidt, 2010).
VAAs have not only been deployed on the national level. Before the Europeanelections of 2009, supranational VAAs had been launched the most prominent one under
the auspices of the EUI-based European Union Democracy Observatory (EUDO). In only
six weeks, the EU Profiler was able to attract more than 2.5 million users from all around
the continent (Breuer, 2010). The second transnational VAA for the European elections,
the VoteMatch EU was produced by a consortium of organizations that offers VAAs on a
national level.
As they have been established in many countries and as they are used so
intensively by the voters VAAs have started to constitute a relevant field of social
science research. Early studies have primarily concentrated on the characteristics of the
users (Boogers and Voerman, 2003; Hooghe and Teepe, 2007; Wall et al., 2009). With
the growing number of voters resorting to these tools during election times, a progressive
interest has arisen with respect to the consistency and reliability of the voting advice
provided by these applications. This stream of VAA-research has resulted 3 in a number
of articles dealing with methodological issues such as the process of statement selection
(Walgrave et al., 2009) and the way in which parties positions on the various statements
areor should beestablished (Trechsel and Mair, 2011). More recently, the impressive
numbers of users visiting VAA-websites during election campaigns have led a group of
political scientist to research effects of these tools also on users electoral behavior.
In another paper, Ruusuvra and Rosema (2008) reported that some researchers
investigated how voters are matched to parties by online voting advice applications(VAAs). The first such websites, which provide voting advice by matching user-entered
policy views with parties positions, were developed in Finland and the Netherlands in
the mid-1990s, and the concept has since spread to most European countries as well as
the USA and Canada. VAAs now have millions of users in many countries. For example,
nearly 40 per cent of the electorate in the Netherlands and Finland used at least one VAA
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in the run up to the parliamentary elections in 2006 and 2007, respectively. High user
figures have also been reported in Germany, Belgium and Switzerland (Germany: 6.7
million VAA recommendations or 11 per cent of the electorate in 2009; Bundeszentrale
fur politische Bildung, 2009; Belgium: a million users or 13 per cent of the electorate in2004; Walgrave et al., 2008; Switzerland: over a million users or 21 per cent of the
electorate in 2007; Ladner et al., 2008: 4). VAAs are clearly not just another passing
internet gimmick.
According to Barnes (1997), voting advice applications may also have important
political consequences such as considered against a backdrop of declining party loyalty
and cleavage-based voting and an increase of issue voting. It could even potentially
affect the electoral decision making of many citizens. For example, they have become the
most important source of election information for young voters in Finland (Strandberg,
2009: 78-83), while a large proportion of website users say that the VAAs help them to
decide how to vote ( Marschall, 2005: 45; Fivaz and Schwarz, 2007, & Bengtsson and
Grnlund, 2005: 249).
VAAs may also persuade a small number of voters to change their candidate or
party choice. In the 2005 German federal elections, six per cent of Wahl-O-Mat users
surveyed said that they will change their vote choice as a result of VAA use (Marschall,
2005: 45) whereas the equivalent effect was approximately ten per cent in the 2006 Dutch
elections (Kleinnijenhuis and van Hoof, 2008: 8). In the 2007 Finnish parliamentary
elections, the conversion rate was just three per cent, but a surprisingly high 15 per cent
of the surveyed VAA users said that they did not have a favorite candidate and voted for
the candidate suggested by a VAA (Mykknen et al., 2007: 5). While such self-reported
assessments of VAA influence are of course of uncertain validity, VAAs are clearlyexceedingly popular online tools to help voters gain political information and make
decisions. As such, they may have a non-trivial impact on voting behavior. This means
that it is important to understand what kinds of recommendations VAAs give. Taking a
VAA test may influence the way voters think about politics and their electoral choice.
There are thus democratic implications to the design of VAAs like what notion of
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democracy do they represent, and what kind of voting do they encourage? In this paper,
the researchers examined the model of voting that underlies these online applications.
Specifically, they consider when they treat the preferences entered by voters as matching
those of parties. By understanding what VAAs treat as voter-party congruence, they alsoclarify which model of voter representation underlies these applications. In doing so, they
concentrate on proximity, directional, salience and valence models of vote choice. They
found out that VAAs reflect a view of party competition and voting that is largely based
on issue-based proximity models. This means that parties are seen as congruent with
voters if their ideological distance to each other is low, so voter representation is along
the lines suggested by the responsible party model (APSA, 1950). Having established
the dominant model of voting encoded in VAAs, the researchers investigated whether the
actual recommendations given were in fact follow the proximity logic as well.
Specifically, they analyzed 13 VAAs from Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany,
the Netherlands, and Switzerland and compare party positions extracted from these
applications with expert survey and manifesto data. They found that in general terms
VAAs reflect party positions well, but that accuracy depends on the number of questions
asked. This means that party-voter matches on secondary issues, which are represented
by fewer VAA questions, are less exact. While Finnish researchers have used candidate
preferences recorded in VAAs to study the ideology of MPs and voter-representative
congruence (Paloheimo et al., 2005; Kestil-Kekkonen and Wass, 2008; Reunanen and
Suhonen, 2009), the paper presents the first cross-national attempt to systematically study
how voting advice applications match voters to parties.
1.3.2 Local Literature
In spite of the popularity of the system in other countries, the Philippines have
not yet delve on exploring VAA as a modality to improve the electoral process. This is
manifested by nil researches or studies conducted and published locally.
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Synthesis
This review highlighted essential findings related to the study at hand. It brought
into focus experiences of the Voting Advice Applications System users as well as their
lessons learned in adopting the system. As revealed in previous research works
conducted about VAA, significant proportion of users are motivated to participate in
elections manifested by their willingness to cast their votes in accordance with the advice
obtained. Related study showed significant differences in VAA effects on voter turnout
and electoral choice that might be based on the respective political context in which the
system was applied, but could also be explained by the fact that the empirical VAA
research so far has not followed common standards. A lack of standardization in the field
to date means that the items used to elicit estimates of VAAs influence vary substantially
across national case studies (Cedroni and Garzia, 2010).
Likewise, majority of published studies rely on post-test questionnaires
administered to users right after playing the test. Modeling VAA effects based on these
sources, however, can lead to severe biases in terms of estimated individual level effects.
This kind of data can overestimate to a substantial extent the actual effect exerted by
VAA-usage on the participation in elections and the voting decision. As Walgrave et al.
(2008) demonstrated, the reported intention in post-test surveys to change vote choice in
accordance with the VAA does not always match with actual changes in voting behavior.
Finally, considering the essence of the reviewed related literatures and studies by
foreign researchers and the dearth of locally conducted study about VAA system, it only
shows that there is a need to pursue this study.
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1.4 Conceptual Framework
Figure 1.1 Paradigm of the Study
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
MONITORING AND EVALUATION
CANDIDATES
Personal
Information
Platform of
government.
Comments on
the existing
system of USC
election
Recommendatio
n to improve the
system
VOTERS
Personal
Information
List of expected
platforms of the
candidates
Preferred traits
of candidates
Comments of
the existing
system of USC
election
Recommendatio
n to improve the
system
Survey
Interview
Research
works/thesis of
related studies
Design the desired
system
Develop the
proposed system
Testing the system
Implementation
Voting Advice
Application
System
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Figure 1.1 shows the process how the study was conceptualized and made into
reality following the Input-Process-Output format. The proponents gathered all
pertinent data through administration of survey instruments, conduct of interview
with selected USC officers and OSA personnel. Moreover, the proponents undertooklibrary and online research works to identify books, reference materials and theses
which are related to the study. After which, the proponents designed and then
developed the desired system. The study concluded by subjecting the developed
system to a series of testing. Each stage of the study was subjected to close
monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the system is perfect and functional.
1.5 Statement of the Problem
This section shows the different problems that the student-voters of DHVTSU
are experiencing following the existing electoral process.
1.5.1 General Problem
Voters are having difficulty identifying and choosing the right candidate or party
to vote for during the annual USC election. They are not given enough information about
the characteristics of the candidates and to clarify their plans or promises (platform of
government) for the studentry due to limited time and poor campaign strategies.
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1.5.2 Specific Problem
This section describes the specific problems experienced by the students-voters
and candidates during the conduct of annual USC election.
1. Not all candidates are confident in introducing themselves and presenting their
platform of government before a group of students or crowd thereby limiting
their chance of encouraging more votes from the,
2. Candidates have limited budget to enhance their campaign strategies like
printing of flyers, tarpaulins, streamers:
3. Voters have insufficient information about the candidates making it hard for
them to make the right decision when they cast their votes;
4. Candidates belonging to a bigger unit or college have the advantage of winning
the political race compared to the smaller ones because of familiarity.
1.6 Objectives of the Study
The section presents the objectives of the study that will respond to the problems
encountered viz-a-viz electoral exercise in DHVTSUs annual election of USC officers.
1.6.1 General Objective
The main objectives of this study is to introduce to DHVTSU an online system
called Voting Advice Application that will help voters engage in a variety of online
political activities, including: acquiring and sharing political information; participating in
online discussions of political issues; mobilizing others to vote and participate in offline
activities and will help reduce, if not totally eliminate, confusion of voters in choosing
the most qualified candidate for the University Student Council.
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1.6.2 Specific Objective
This section states the proponents detailed objectives in this study. These specific
objectives are the solutions for the aforementioned specific problems, as follows:
1. To develop an online Voting Advice Application (VAA) System that can
provide opportunity for voters to gain information about the candidates
platform of government in order to come up with the right choice during the
USC election of officers.
2. To create a system where candidates will be treated fairly by the electorate as
they will be voted based on their platform of government and not by
popularity.
3. To introduce to the university, through the OSA, an online system of voting
advice application which require lesser cost but with significant benefits for
the USC and the university.
1.7 Assumptions
This section states the assumptions of the study for the proposed system, the
Voting Advice Application System.
1. The proposed system will provide opportunity to identify deserving candidates
by answering set of questions online to be formulated by the Systems
Administrator concerning their preferred platform and getting them introduced to
the candidates/party whose platform closely match with their preference or choice
sent through the voting advice.
2. The proposed system will reduce, if not totally eliminate, the problem on
voting based on popularity and not on the merit of the candidates platform of
government.
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3. Electorate will be more motivated to participate in the electoral processby
casting their intelligent vote in accordance to the advice obtained.
1.8 Significance of the Study
This section states the significance of the study viz-a-viz educational,
technological, economic and social aspects.
1.8.1 Educational Significance
This study contains information on how to develop a Voting Advice Application
System that can be used by other researchers as reference in designing and developing
related system. Further, other researchers who wish to modify or enhance this system
may approach the proponents to be oriented and learn from their experiences while
undertaking the various phases of the project.
1.8.2 Technological Significance
This study used the Web-based system which is considered very relevant
component of information technology. It can be used as a benchmark for other
universities who are desirous to adopt online VAA system to keep their students
informed of the personal attributes and platform of their candidates to any students
organizations that can make electoral process and political exercise successful with
assured high level of voters participation.
1.8.3 Economic Significance
This study can reduce expenses incurred during the conduct of annual election of
USC officers for they need not resort to expensive campaign activities and strategies.
Through online campaign, they will be able to introduce themselves and their platforms
to the voting public who are all internet users and lovers.
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The proponents and the university can benefit from this study should other
schools or organizations signify interest to adopt the system.
1.8.4 Social Significance
This study provides opportunity to the electorate to actively involved in the
electoral process by voting the most qualified candidates. Success in the implementation
of the Voting Advice Application System can even be recognized and adopted or
improved by concerned government entity as part of their voters education program.
1.9Scope and Limitation
The study was conducted within the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State
University. A total of 388 students randomly selected from the different colleges
served as respondents to the administered survey questionnaires. Selected USC leaders
and OSA personnel were likewise interviewed to determine the existing system and their
experiences in holding USC election of officers.
The study is focused on the design, development, and testing of online VAA
system which can address the problem on voters unfamiliarity with the candidates and
their platforms frequently encountered during the USC annual election of officers.
1.10 Operational Definitions of Terms
This section contains the operational terms and definition that have been used in this
study. Common terms used are the following:
Advice. An opinion or recommendation offered as a guide to action, conduct, etc.
http://www.freedictionary.com
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Candidates. A person seeking or nominated for election to a position of authority or
honour or selection for a job, promotion, etc. http://www.freedictionary.com
Election. Is a formal decision-making process by which a population chooses an
individual to hold public office. http://www.freedictionary.com
Electorate. One who has the right to vote. http://www.freedictionary.com
Internet. The worldwide system of linked computer network.
http://www.freedictionary.com
Platforms. A formal declaration of the principles on which a group, such as a
political party, makes its appeal to the public. http://www.freedictionary.com
Voting. To express one's preference for a candidate or for a proposed resolution of an
issue. http://www.freedictionary.com
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Chapter 2
METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the different methods used in developing and evaluating thesystem. It also presents the sampling techniques that the proponents used in choosing the
respondents and the different research instruments that have been used in gathering data
as well as its statistical treatment.
2.1 Type of Research
Descriptive Method of research was appropriately employed in completing thisstudy. This method is a general procedure that describes the nature of the situation as it
exists at the time of the study and explores the course of the particular phenomena.
2.1 Respondents of the Study
The main respondents for this study are selected students and personnel of
DHVTSU who are directly involved in the conduct of the annual USC election of
officers. The proponents conducted a survey by means of administering printed
questionnaires which have been distributed to a total of 388 respondents.
Respondents of the study were chosen following the Slovens formula:
Where:
n = sample size
N = Population Size
E = margin of error
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By using the formula, the proponents got 388 respondents from the total
DHVTSU students population of 13,323 using 5% or 0.05 error tolerances.
n= 13323/ (1+13323*0.05*0.05)
n=13323/(1+13323*.0025)
n=13323/34.31
n= 388
2.3 Sampling Technique and Procedures
The proponents used random sampling technique in choosing the respondents and
gathering information, thus the chance of being chosen as a respondent is reasonable. The
proponents chose the respondents randomly based from the total number of students.
2.4 Research Instruments
This section of the study shows the different research instruments used to gather and
collect needed data.
2.1.1 Questionnaire
The proponents formulated some questions to acquire statistical and relevant
information.. Answers were utilized by the Systems Administrator in determining the
inputs to be considered in the systems developed.
2.1.2 Interview
The proponents conducted an interview to acquire information and suggestion for
the development of proposed system from the respondents. Through this instrument, the
proponents were given the opportunity to discuss with selected respondents their
experiences and lessons learned about the present election system.
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2.1.3 Library Research
It involves collecting and reading related books available in the library as references
in establishing the theoretical framework and justification for the pursuance of the study
2.1.4 Internet Research
It involves surfing the internet for related scholarly works about VAA system.
2.5 Administration of the Instrument
Survey questionnaires were pre-tested to 10 respondents (not included in the total
sample) to determine the validity and reliability of the instruments. After which, the
instruments were administered to the 388 student-respondents who were randomly
selected. The proponents asked the students to answer the given questionnaires with
honesty and with assured confidentiality.
2.6 Analysis of Data
Data collected from the respondents were analyzed using simple statistical tool.
2.7 Methods Used in Developing the System
This section shows the methodology cycle from the system development up to the
systems operation and maintenance. The proponents used the concept methodology
cycle also known as Systems development Life Cycle (SDLC) to describe the activities
and functions used within the system.
2.7.1 Planning Phase
Planning phase includes the process of establishing the need for developing the
system. It covers the analysis of the present system of election of USC officers through
various strategies which include interview of people directly involved in the process and
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administering survey instruments. Related studies were then identified to determine
available references as basis in developing conceptual framework of the system.
The proponents jointly planned their activities well by building time table of
specific activities to be undertaken.
2.7.2Analysis Phase
This phase covers critical analysis of the problems encountered by the voters.
Through the data gathered from respondents and other co-operators (i.e OSA personnel
and USC officers), the proponents come-up with their conclusions and possible actions to
address the problems.
2.7.3 Design Phase
This phase covers the conceptualization of the design of the proposed system with
all its features and documented detailed system of operation. This was realized through
the application of the inputs, processes and outputs (IPO) framework.
2.7.4 Implementation Phase
After the completion of the design, the proponents started working on the
development of the VAA system followed by a series of testing to determine its
functionality and workability. Possible weaknesses and faults that occurred inside the
system were determined and acted upon by the proponents.
2.7.5 Operation and Support Phase
This phase represent the actual operation of the system. The proponents uploaded
the system in the internet and tested to selected users. Problems encountered were
properly documented and used as basis for corrective measures. This includes correction,
additions, and movements to a different computing platform, among others. The
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proponents made sure that the developed system had continuous improvement by
entertaining objective comments and suggestions of the users/voters.
2.8 Methods Used for System Evaluation
This section shows the methodology used in the evaluation of the system together
with the feasibility of the different aspects, to wit:
2.8.1 Economic Feasibility
The economic feasibility covers the budgetary requirements composed of
breakdown of all expenses incurred in the developed system as well as the computed
return-on-investment (ROI) or benefits which can be derived from it.
This analysis is similar with those technology-generated research projects which
directly contribute to economic development of the university, in particular and the
country, in general.
2.8.2 Operational Feasibility
The operational feasibility determines the functionality and efficiency of the
system developed. It is the process where the proponents studied whether the system
operate properly without faults and errors before its full implementation.
2.8.3 Technical Feasibility
This includes in-depth study on the technical aspects of the system ensuring that
all systems work or functions based on the design that was developed by the proponents.
This likewise include application of technical expertise of the proponents in employing
corrective measures concerning faults and errors encountered during the testing and
implementation of the system.
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2.9 Statistical Treatment of Data
This section of the study refers to the statistical computation and analysis of data
gathered from the respondents of the administered survey questionnaires.
2.9.1 Statistical Procedures
After retrieving the questionnaires, the proponents performed statistical analysis
to come up with the best interpretation Weighted mean was used to determine the degree
of importance of the items being analyzed following the formula, as follows:
Weighted Mean
WM =
Where:
WM = Weighted Mean
WV = Weighted Value
= Symbol for the summation process
N =Number of Respondents
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1. In assessing the effectiveness of the Existing System for the election of
USC officers, the following rating scales with corresponding value were used:
Rating Scale Point Values
Outstanding 5
Very Satisfied 4
Satisfied 3
Unsatisfied 2
Very Unsatisfied 1
To get the overall assessment of existing system in terms of its effectiveness,
weighted mean was computed, and the following conversion table was used:
Weighted Mean Descriptive Rating
4.515.00 Very Effective
3.51 - 4.50 Effective
2.51-3.50 Uncertain
1.502.50 Ineffective
1.001.50 Very Ineffective
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2. In assessing the reliability of the Existing System election of the USC officers, the
following rating scales with corresponding values were used:
Rating Scale Point Values
Outstanding 5
Very Satisfied 4
Satisfied 3
Unsatisfied 2
Very Unsatisfied 1
To get the overall assessment terms of the reliability of the existing system, weighted
mean was computed and the following conversion table used:
Weighted Mean Descriptive Rating
4.515.00 Outstanding
3.51 - 4.50 Very Reliable
2.51-3.50 Reliable
1.502.50 Unreliable
1.001.50 Very Unreliable
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3. In assessing on how helpful is the existing system for the election of USC
officers to the end user, the following rating scales with corresponding values were
used:
Rating Scale Point Values
Outstanding 5
Very Satisfied 4
Satisfied 3
Unsatisfied 2
Very Unsatisfied 1
To get the overall assessment on how helpful is the existing system to the end users,
weighted mean was computed and the following conversion table used:
Weighted Mean Descriptive Rating
4.515.00 Very Satisfied
3.51 - 4.50 Satisfied
2.51-3.50 Uncertain
1.502.50 Unsatisfied
1.001.50 Very Unsatisfied
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Chapter 3
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
This chapter presents the analysis and interpretation of data gathered consistent
with the statement of the problem for this study. The result is presented using the tabular
and textual presentations.
The proponents administered survey instruments and conducted interview to
selected students, incumbent USC officers and OSA personnel of the Don Honorio
Ventura Technological State University to determine the effectiveness, reliability and
helpfulness of the existing system for USC election of officers.
The respondents of the study are composed of three hundred eighty-eight (388)
students-voters from different colleges of the university selected through random
sampling method using the slovens formula.
3.1 Assessment of the Existing System for the Election of USC Officers
The table presented below shows the result of survey and opinions of the
respondents on how efficient the existing system for election of USC Officers is.
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Table 3.1.1
Assessment on the Effectiveness of the Existing System
for the Election of USC Officers
Table 3.1.1 shows the frequency distribution, weighted mean and the descriptive
rating of the assessment of the respondents on the effectiveness of the existing system.
With the computed average weighted mean of 1.42, it can be deduced that the
respondents found the existing system for the election of USC officers very ineffective.
It means that the existing system failed to provide the voters with vital information
about the candidates, about the election itself and the candidates for certain positions.
This somehow affect the result of the election where wrong candidates were elected as
leaders.
Aspects 5
(O)
4
(VS)
3
(S)
2
(U)
1
(VU)
WV WM DR
a. In giving
informationabout the
candidate.
7
(35)
0
(0)
0
(0)
180
(360)
201
(201)
388
(596)
1.54
Ineffecti
ve
b. In givinginformation
about theelection.
7
(35)
0
(0)
0
(0)
94
(188)
287
(287)
388
(510)1.31
Very
Ineffecti
ve
c. In giving
informationabout who
are thecandidatesin a certain
position.
7
(35)
0
(0)
0
(0)
110
(220)
271
(271)
388
(526)
1.40
Very
Ineffecti
ve
Average Weighted Mean=1.42 Very Ineffective
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Table 3.1.2
Assessment on the Reliability of the Existing System
for the Election of USC Officers
Table 3.1.2 shows the frequency distribution, weighted mean and the descriptive
rating of the respondents on the reliability of the existing system for election of USC
Officers. Based on the computed average weighted mean of 1.84 , it bears out the
unreliability of the existing system as perceived by the respondents. Apparently, the
existing system failed to give correct information about the election as well as present
non-bias advice to concerned individuals and availability was not felt when needed.
This would mean that the respondents consider these aspects as crucial in
determining the reliability of any election system.
Aspects 5
(O)
4
(VS)
3
(S)
2
(U)
1
(VU)
WV WM DR
a. In givinga correctinformation
7
(35)
0
()
147
(441)
234
(468)
0
()
388
(944)
2.43
Unreliable
b. In givingnon-biasadvice
7
(35)
0
()
0
()
186
(372)
195
(195)
388
(602)1.60
Unreliable
c. In beingavailable ifneeded
7
(35)
0
()
3
(9)
154
(308)
224
(224)
388
(567)
1.50
Very
Unreliable
Average Weighted Mean=1.84 Unreliable
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Table 3.1.3
Assessment on the Helpfulness of the Existing System
for the Election for USC Officers
Table 3.1.3 shows the frequency distribution, weighted mean and the descriptive
rating of the respondents on how the existing system helps the voters during the election
of USC officers.. With an average weighted mean of 1.84, it turned out that the existing
system is unreliable. As can be gleaned from the result, the respondents found the
existing system not reliable giving correct information about the election as well as
presenting non-bias advice to concerned individuals and making the system available
when the need it.
In the same vein, these aspects are regarded vital yardsticks by respondents in
determining the helpfulness of any election system to the end-users.
3.2 Attitude of the respondents towards the Existing System
Aspects 5
(O)
4
(VS)
3
(S)
2
(U)
1
(VU)
WV WM DR
a. byprovidinginformation
about the
candidate
7
(35)
0
()
0
()
0
()
0
()
388
()
Unreliable
b. In givingnon-bias
advice
7
(35)
0
()
0
() () ()
388
()
Unreliable
c. In being
available ifneeded
7
(35)
0
() () () ()
388
()
Very
Unreliable
Average Weighted Mean=1.84 Unreliable
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The existing system was claimed by the majority of respondents as very
traditional which are not appreciated by them. As some averred, .. the campaign system
of candidates was too elementary (basic). Another one declared that the entire system is
actually a waste of time and money.
Flyers, Posters, and even Online ads especially in social networking sites dont
work much with some of the respondents. One even claimed, sometimes Im annoyed
with those political gimmicks by the candidates which do not show what their plans are
for us students. This comments only shows negative attitude among selected
respondents who are desirous of some innovative reforms on the existing election system
in DHVTSU.
3.3Existing System Capability
The existing system apparently lack the capability to encourage higher level of
voters participation in the electoral process. The annual election of USC officers which
should have been treated by students as critical as they will be electing their leaders who
will serve as their representatives in negotiating with the school management on matters
of their interests are observed to be a futile exercise as some students voted only for
compliance or for fun. One respondents shared his experience last election day. He said,
I casted my vote in favor of (???) because he is the only one I know. Why should I vote
for others coming from another department. Others might think that we are not united in
our college!. It goes without saying that for others, election is a mere competition
among departments of the university.
3.4 System Improvement Suggestion
The present system of election has to be evaluated and if needed be revised to
make it more functional. More effort must be exerted in the campaign process wherevoters will have more opportunity to know the candidates and appreciate their platforms
of government which they will use as basis in making wise election. As one respondent
observed, ..for as long as you are handsome, you are likely to win. You must have face
value to win the race even if you dont have leadership ability.
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As suggested by the respondents, a more effective system should be developed in
order to ensure reliable election result where those voted as officers are truly qualified
and service-oriented. As much as possible, they suggested online system of electoral
campaign be developed in as much as the university is technological in nature.
3.5 Technological Preparedness
As its vision, DHVTSU aims to become the premier technological state
university. As such, the officers must focus more on the installation of needed systems in
the operation of its various units and programs. One best way is to encourage all students
of technological courses, like the B.S. in Information Technology, to design and develop
new or modified system that will be of great importance and will provide greater benefits
to the university.
Development of online system for election of USC Officers can be undertaken by
the students who were trained in programming activities by able professors of the
university.
3.6Requirements Specifications
Models of the system to be developed make up an integral part of every
requirement specifications. It provides a substantiated basis for the development of these
models. Unfortunately, there is no universal specification of requirements. Rather, the
choice and level of detail of models depend on various factors.
3.6.1 Problem Statement
1. Not all candidates have their advertising strategy that is why voters dont have
much information about that candidate and this may lessen their option in choosing
the candidate that matches their political policies.
2. Since not all of the voters getting enough information about the
candidates/parties. Voters are having a hard time to choose their candidate.
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3. Voters need some advice or suggestions for the reason of having more than the
required candidates/parties to vote for.
4. Having negative impact on electoral turnout. It is because that some of the voters
voted the candidate that didnt even match their political policies.
3.6.2 Data Statement
Administrator profile is needed upon registration for new account, where the
profile may consist of full name, address, gender, email, username, password and the
authentication code from the head of election committee.
3.6.3 Transaction Requirements
Transaction requirement is the last step to be considered in the requirements
specification. The main transaction required by this system as suggested by the
respondents and as being approved upon by the proponents.
The main transaction required by this system as suggested by respondents and as
being observed by the proponents includes:
1. Anyone who is connected to the internet can use the Voting Application.
2. Having a more appealing graphical design
3. The proposed system will give a ranked list of candidate that will be based
according to the voters political policies.
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Chapter 4
DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED SYSTEM
This chapter uses graphical techniques through diagrams like Entity Relationship
Diagram (ERD) and Data Flow Diagram (DFD) which shows the logical model and the
flow of the existing system and the proposed system. The diagrams are used to tell or
describe what the system does or the transactions it undergoes and the entities involve.
4.1 Entity- Relationship Diagram (ERD)
4.1.1 Initial Entity-Relationship Diagram of the Proposed System
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4.1.2 Final Entity Relationship Diagram
4.2 Data Flow Diagram
4.2.1 Data Flow Diagram of the Existing System
4.2.1.1 Context Diagram of the Existing System
4.2.1.1 Diagram 0 of the Existing System
4.2.2 Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed System
Figure 4.2.2.1 Context Diagram of the Proposed System
Figure 4.2.2.2 Diagram 0 of the Proposed System
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4.3 Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed System
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4.3 Hardware and Software Specification
Table 4.3.1 Hardware and Software Specification
HARDWARE SPECIFICATION
Processor: Intel
Pentium/Celeron/AMD at least
5Mhz
Memory: 128MB RAM or higher
Graphic Card: 32MB or Higher
OS:
Windows 98 or Higher
SOFTWARE SPECIFICATION
Any internet browser.
Internet Connection
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4.4 System Architecture
The system architecture shows the figure of the server client connection where in the
database resides in the web browser as shown in figure 7. All the datas from the client
are in the database which is the web-server. The server has a greater security control than
the client. It also performs better control access to guarantee that the client with the
appropriate permissions may access the admin. And the client must have an internet
connection to access the proposed system.
Internet
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4.5 Prototype Process
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Figure 4.5.1 Homepage and Login
This is the Homepage and Login page of the system where the administrator can log
in their username and password.
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Figure 4.5.2 User Registration
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Figure 4.5.3 User Datagrid
This page shows the user datagrid where the admin can manage the user account.
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Figure 4.5.4 Candidate Registration
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Figure 4.5.5 Administrator Portal
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Figure 4.5.6 Accomplishment
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Figure 4.5.7 Candidate Datagrid
4.6 Cost and Benefit Analysis
The Cost and Benefit Analysis is the estimation of total cost of money used in the
development of the proposed system. Analysis is undertaken to determine whether the
cost of the project is comparable or exceeded with the needed or targeted benefits of end
users .
Table 4.6.1
Development Cost of the Proposed System
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Development Cost
Hardware Cost
2 Laptop Computer 35,000.00
Broadband Kit 1,000.00
Total 36,000.00
Software Cost
Dreamweaver 150.00
MySQL 150.00
150.00
Total 450.00
Miscellaneous Cost
Print 1,000.00
Transportation 1,000.00
Internet Fee 3,000.00
Electricity, Water, Food 15.,000.00
Total 20,000.00
Total Development Cost 56,450.00
Table 4.6.1 shows the development cost of the proposed system, which consist of
the hardware, software, and miscellaneous cost. The total cost of the is Php. 56,450.00
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Chapter 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter shows the summary, conclusions and recommendations of proponents
based in the information they gathered.
Summary
Voters are having difficulty identifying and choosing the right candidate or party
to vote for during the annual USC election. They are not given enough information about
the characteristics of the candidates and to clarify their plans or promises (platform of
government) for the students due to limited time and poor campaign strategies.
This prompted the proponents to introduce to DHVTSU an online system called
Voting Advice Application that will help voters engage in a variety of online political
activities, including acquiring and sharing political information, participating in online
discussions of political issues, mobilizing others to vote and participate in offline
activities and will help reduce, if not totally eliminate, confusion of voters in choosing
the most qualified candidate for the University Student Council.
The study was conducted within the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State
University. A total of 388 students randomly selected from the different colleges using
the slovens formula served as respondents to the administered survey questionnaires.
Selected USC leaders and OSA personnel were likewise interviewed to determine the
existing system and their experiences in holding USC election of officers.
Summary of findings are as follows:
1. Assessment of the respondents on the effectiveness of the existing system for
the election of USC officers very ineffective. It means that the existing system failed
to provide the voters with vital information about the candidates, about the election itself
and the candidates for certain positions. This somehow affect the result of the election
where wrong candidates were elected as leaders;
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2. Assessment of the respondents on the reliability of the existing system for
election of USC Officers is unreliable. Apparently, the existing system failed to give
correct information about the election as well as present non-bias advice to concerned
individuals and availability was not felt when needed. This would mean that the
respondents consider these aspects as crucial in determining the reliability of any election
system:
3. Assessment on how the existing system helps the voters during the election of
USC officers is likewise unreliable and not helpful;
4. Generally the attitude of the respondents towards the existing system is not
favorable;
5. The existing system apparently lack the capability to encourage higher level
of voters participation in the electoral process.
6. The present system of election has to be evaluated and if needed be revised to
make it more functional.
7. DHVTSU students are technologically prepared to develop system beneficial to
the university.
Conclusion
Based on the results and finding of the study, there is a need to improve
the present system of election of USC Officers. An online system called Voting
Advice Applications (VAA) can be a potential alternative or solution to the
problem.
This online tool or system will help voters gain political information and
make decisions. It will influence the way voters think about politics and their
electoral choice. It will be of great help for the OSA to ensure higher level andmore educated involvement of students in the university electoral process.
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Recommendation
Based on the findings and conclusion made in this study the following are
hereby recommended:
1. Adoption of the VAA System by the Office of the Students Affair comes
election of USC Officers;
2. Massive information-dissemination drive to make the students aware of
the system; and
3. Further study should be conducted to identify specific areas for the VAA
system improvement.
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References
A. Books
Bengtsson, A. and K. Gronlund (2005). Ehdokasvalinta in Paloheimo, H. (Ed.),
Vaalit ja demokratia Suomessa. Helsinki: WSOY, 229-51.
Boogers, M.; voerman, G. (2003). Surfing citizens and floating voters: Results of
an online survey of visitors to political web sites during the Dutch 2002 General
Elections.Information Polity 8: 17-27.
Cedroni,. L.; Garzia, D. (eds) (2010). Voting Advice Application in Europe: State
of the Art. Napoli:ScriptaWeb.
De Graaf, J. (2010). The Irresistible Rise of Stemwijer. . In L. Cedroni; D. Garzia
(eds.). Voting Advice Application in Europe The State of the Art. Napoli:
ScriptaWeb
Fivaz, J. and D. Schwarz (2007). Nailing the Pudding to the Wall: E-Democracy
as Catalyst for Transparency and Accountability. Paper presented at the Direct
Democracy in Latin-America conference, 14-15 March 2007, Buenos Aires,
Argentina.
Hooghe, M.; Teepe, W. (2007). Party profiles on the web: an analysis of the
logfiles of non-partisan interactive political internet sites in the 2003 and 2004
election campaign in Belgium. New Media & Society 9: 965-85.
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Kleinnijenhus, J. and M.J. van Hoof (2008). The influence of Internet
Consultants. Paper presented at the International Communication Association
conference, Montreal, May 2008, Montreal
Ladner. A.; Felder, G; Fivaz, J. (2010). More than toys? A first assessment of
voting advice application in Switzerland. In L. Cedroni; D. Garzia (eds.) Voting
Advice Application in Europe. The state of the Art.Napoli: ScriptaWeb, 91-123.
Marschall, S; Schimidt, C. K; (2010) Party profiles on the web: analysis of
logfiles of non-partisan interactive political internet sites in the 2003 an 2004
election campaign in Belgium.New Media & Society 9: 965-85.
Mykkanen, J., T. Moring and J. Pehkonen (2007). Tutkimus vaalikoneiden
kaytosta ja suhtaumitumisesta vaalikoneisiin: vaalikoneet koetan hyodyllisiksi.
Ruusvirta, O. Rosema, M. (2009). Do online vote sectors influence electoral
articipation and the direction of the vote? Paper presented at European
Consortium for Political Research (ECPR) General Conference, Potsdam,
Germany, 10-12 September 2009.
Trechsel, A. H. Mair, P. (2011). When parties (also) position themselves: n
introduction to the EU Profiler.Journal of Information Technology & Politics 8:
1-20.
Walgrave, Stefaan/van Aelst, Peter/Nuytemans, Michiel (2008b): Vote Advice
Applications as new Campaign Players? The Electoral Effects of the Do the
Vote Test during the 2004 Regional Elections in Belgium. In: Farrell,
David/Schmitt-Beck, Rdiger (eds.): Non Party Actors in Electoral Politics. The
Role of Interest Groups and Independent Citizens in Contemporary Election
Campaigns. Baden-Baden: Nomos, pp. 237-258.
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Wall, M.; Sudulich, M.; Costello, R.; Leon, E. (2009). Picking your party online
An Investigation of Irelands first online voting advice application.Information
Polity 14: 203-18.
B. Internet
http://global.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/182308/election
http://www.thefreedictionary.com
http://www.google.com
APPENDICES
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APPENDIX A
(Questionnaire)
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