Group 4 (Humss 4) - Final Manuscript
Group 4 (Humss 4) - Final Manuscript
In partial fulfillment
of the requirement for the subject
Inquiries, Investigation, and Immersion
MATEO, ROSEL A.
REYES, MACY DANE
RODRGIUEZ, DANNILYN JOY S.
TORRES, NEIL MARJUNN B.
May 2021
AN EVALUATION ON THE EFFECTS OF INDEPENDENT LEARNING
ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SELECTED GRADE 11
STUDENTS OF SAINT MARY MAGDALENE SCHOOL ACADEMIC
YEAR 2020-2021
BIOGRAPHICAL DATA
Rosel A Mateo, one of the researchers of the study, was born on December 23,
2002, at Sto. Nino, Cagayan and is currently residing at Salinas, Bacoor, Cavite. Her
parents are Joseline Mateo, a real estate agent, and Roding Mateo. She finished her
Elementary education at Salinas Elementary School and went to Bacoor National High
School-Salinas Annex for her Junior High School. She continued her Senior High School
at Saint Mary Magdalene School-Kawit. She is still studying there with a strand of
Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) and is expected to graduate this year in 2021.
She is the eldest of her siblings that also leads her to be more dedicated to being a
responsible sister, daughter, and student. When she has goals in mind, she ensures to
accomplishes them and does not waste time. She also has positive and bright thinking that
Macy Dane Reyes was born in District Hospital in Las Pinas City. Her parents are
Joan and Marcy Jaminal. She has two siblings named Cristal and Kian Jaminal. She
finished her Elementary education at Panamitan Elementary School and continued her
Junior High School at General Emilio Aguinaldo National High School. Her chosen strand
is Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) and she is currently taking it at Saint Mary
She wants to pursue her dreams and goals to help her parents and to give back what
they have done to her, all the love and support especially their hard work. She was one of
Her hobby is singing. And when she has time, she hangs out with their friends. She
doesn’t want “What if’s” in life that is why if she does things, she does it all by her heart.
Dannilyn Joy S. Rodriguez is one of the researchers of this study. She was born on
October 11, 2001, at Noveleta, Cavite. Her parents are Janeth and Danilo Rodriguez. She
has three siblings namely Dannica Jane, Diana, and Jhan Andrei Rodriguez. She finished
her Elementary education at Salcedo Elementary School and she continued her Junior High
School at Bagbag National High School. She chose the strand of Humanities and Social
Sciences (HUMSS) at Saint Mary Magdalene School in Kawit, Cavite, and is expected to
She is hard working in achieving her dreams and goals in life for her to become
successful in the future to make her parents proud and happy. She always put an effort into
She likes spending time with her friends when she is free. She believed that when
you want it, work for it and you will soon get it.
Neil Marjunn B. Torres, one of the researchers of this study, is an 18-year old man
and an only child who was born on March 21, 2003, at Tondo, Manila, Metro Manila, and
is still residing there. His parents are Marites B. Torres, a data encoder, and Maximo
Ronaldo C. Torres, a simple father, and husband. He finished this Elementary education at
Don Bosco College in Canlubang, Calamba Laguna and went at St. Peter’s Academy in
and at St. Michael’s Institute of Bacoor in Poblacion, Bacoor, Cavite for his Junior High
School. He continued his Senior High School at Saint Mary Magdalene School in Kawit,
Cavite where he is still studying with a strand of Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS)
He is a man that pays too much attention to details for he always aims for perfection
and high standards. He is an active volunteer in their local parish where he served as a
lector and commentator and Social Communications member at the same time. Most of the
time, he exhibits his total effort in his tasks while paying attention to details as a part of his
routine as a student.
His goal is to become successful in life for he wanted to lift his family's living.
Thus, he intended to pursue the course of Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the
University of the Philippines-Manila as his preparation in taking the law school if he was
eligible to be admitted. Lastly, he wishes to have a better life that is different from what he
is experiencing at the present which he can only by continuing to study for tertiary
education.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Despite the challenges and trials that came on their way while finishing this study,
the researchers still wanted to thank their parents, who supported them in every little way
and inspires them in everything that they do. They became their refuge when they feel
helpless and tired in making their tasks with high standards. They continue to show support
To their friends, who became their beacon of light on the times that they are in the
shadows of their lives. They supported them and became their consoler and confidant when
things did not go well. They are the living channels made by God to let them know that
To their teachers especially to their research adviser, Ms. Rose May E. Pacumio,
who selflessly gave her time and effort to guide their group in accomplishing this study
And lastly, to Almighty God who made us and who had given them the prowess
and capabilities to accomplish this study on time. He is their Comforter when they feel
tired and empty while making this study happen. Indeed, the researchers finished this study
and everything in between through God who never fails to protect them from harm and to
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................................................ v
ABSTRACT ...................................................................................................................... xi
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 1
CHAPTER I ...................................................................................................................... 4
Hypothesis..................................................................................................................... 6
Definition of Terms....................................................................................................... 8
CHAPTER II ................................................................................................................... 14
METHODOLOGY ......................................................................................................... 23
Research Design.......................................................................................................... 23
Research Instrument.................................................................................................... 25
CHAPTER IV.................................................................................................................. 28
Introduction ................................................................................................................. 28
Extent of the Effects of Independent Learning through Rate and Scale ............... 30
Summary ..................................................................................................................... 37
CHAPTER V ................................................................................................................... 38
Summary ..................................................................................................................... 38
Conclusions ................................................................................................................. 39
Recommendations ....................................................................................................... 40
BIBLIOGRAPHY ........................................................................................................... 41
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................. 44
LIST OF TABLES
LIST OF FIGURES
ABSTRACT
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of independent learning
School, Academic Year 2020-2021. The research aimed to (1) identify the demographic
profile of the respondents; (2) evaluate the extent of the effects of independent learning on
the academic performance of the respondents in terms of motivation, strand, and level of
focus; and (3) discover the different approaches used by the respondents on independent
learning. This study was limited only to selected Grade 11 students of Saint Mary
Magdalene School, Academic Year 2020-2021. The respondents were 40 students and the
researchers utilized simple random sampling in data gathering. The research design used
questionnaire. The results showed that there are significant effects between independent
learning and the academic performance of the respondents in terms of (a) motivation; (b)
environment; and (c) level of focus which is supported by the variables that affect the
problems that can affect their level of focus. The researchers concluded that utilizing the
approaches used by the respondents can help the students and the school in addressing the
students’ concerns and difficulties present within their learning environment. The
eradicating the problems included in this study by using the school’s philosophy, vision,
INTRODUCTION
Learning is a vital element in the life of the students which allows them to acquire
new knowledge and skills that they can use in their future endeavors. It helps the students
to be equipped with the different challenges of life by providing them the opportunity to
learn the things that they need for their subsistence. Through learning, students can exhibit
their prowess and skills be it acquired or by-birth as an application of their learning from
school. On the other hand, independence, as a state of the human person, enables one to
have freedom and sovereignty over his or her actions. It allows every person to perform
things in life which entails responsibility and consequences in the end. Through
independence as a state of the human person, learning alone can be made possible without
Taking the context of the world today, it is clear that conventional face-to-face
classes are not feasible at the moment due to COVID-19. Having such type of learning at
present is not advisable for there is a high risk of transmitting the disease which makes
both students and teachers vulnerable. Therefore, a shift in education has been made to
cater to the needs of students and teachers for this academic year. Students and teachers
are no longer required to report in school since classes are already done virtually. Because
of the limited intervention that teachers can provide to their students, some institutions
learning at the moment. Independent learning is “an integral part of the learning and
teaching process where students have an opportunity to extend their learning and develop
self-management skills” (Suriaman, 2015). This method of learning allows the learners to
explore and go beyond their limits by having control of their time and effort in learning. It
also makes them responsible for dealing with their tasks as they balance their personal life
with school life. However, teachers only have a limited intervention with their students
since this method of learning promotes learning at their own pace. Thus, learners are
required to learn on their own with minimal assistance from their instructors. Nevertheless,
there are still some students who struggle in learning due to some challenges that this
In a similar study, (Abria, Abraham, Lupian, & Copino, 2020) found that “the
students disagreed with the use of Self-Paced Learning (SPL) as if it promotes greater
participation and interaction.” This is an issue for the students because what SPL promotes
is the opposite of what the students are currently experiencing. SPL tends to advocate for
a learning experience that is adaptive to the individual needs of the students. Another
difficulty was posed by Bautista (2015) that “great impact of self-paced learning prototype
was observed among high ability students; however, the marginal impact was observed
among low ability students.” It implies that independent learning can only be observed
positively on students who can manage learning without needing too much help from
others.
This study aimed to determine the extent of the effects of independent learning on
the academic performance of selected Grade 11 students of Saint Mary Magdalene School,
Academic Year 2020-2021. The respondents became aware of the impacts of independent
learning on their academic progress in school this academic year. This study also identified
learning which is needed by the researchers to formulate possible ways in coping with the
CHAPTER I
Due to the unprecedented health crisis in the country, a shift in education and
learning has been made to address the different needs of both students and teachers. Some
schools continue to find an effective and suitable method of learning for this school year
while considering the different factors that affect the learning of the students and the
capacity of the teachers to teach. Thus, leaving schools the choice to deviate from the
conventional way of learning to a new one since it is not feasible considering the current
condition of the country today. Nevertheless, a different method of learning was adopted
which may address the challenges and conditions of education today and that is
independent learning. Therefore, the researchers conducted a study that aimed to evaluate
students of Saint Mary Magdalene School, Academic Year 2020 – 2021. More specifically,
1.1. age;
1.3. strand?
2. To what extent are the effects of independent learning on the academic performance
2.1. motivation;
3. What are the different approaches used by the selected Grade 11 students on
independent learning?
This study generally aimed to evaluate the effects of independent learning on the
1.1. age;
1.3. strand;
2.1. motivation;
independent learning.
Hypothesis
This study is deemed significant to the students, teachers, parents, and school
administrators.
Students. They are the main beneficiaries of this study for this helps them to be
organized and disciplined individuals concerning their studies due to the limited assistance
from the teachers. Through this study, they can formulate coping strategies that would help
them improve their academic performance in school. Furthermore, this will allow them to
learn and understand every lesson effectively by adopting independent learning as their
method of learning.
Teachers. Due to the limitations of independent learning, the teachers may find
suitable ways from this study to help their students who need further assistance. This would
allow them to have more time in facilitating their students than in spending most of the
time teaching a subject matter without any assurance that the students are learning
effectively. By knowing the different facets of independent learning from this study, they
can critically create teaching strategies and different learning approaches on independent
Parents. As close collaborators of the teachers, they would become aware of the
concept and nature of independent learning and its implications to their children as
students. This study would allow them to recognize the limitations of independent learning
between the teachers and students. This would also them establish boundaries for their
understanding of independent learning and the things that can be done to improve the
learning experience of the students. They would also become aware of the difficulties and
problems that the learners continue to encounter under independent learning which needs
attention and solution. As administrators of a school, they must ensure that the experience
of both teachers and students is efficient which they can learn from this study.
This study focused on the evaluation of the effects of independent learning on the
academic performance of selected Grade 11 Senior High School students of Saint Mary
Magdalene School, Academic Year 2020 – 2021. The researchers included certain
variables to evaluate the effects of independent learning on the academic progress of the
respondents such as motivation, environment, and level of focus. This study was conducted
in Saint Mary Magdalene School located at Tanggulan St., Poblacion, Kawit, Cavite. Saint
Mary Magdalene School is a private Catholic institution operated and supervised by the
Diocese of Imus Catholic Educational System (DICES). The researchers selected the locale
of the study based mainly on the proximity of its location to the researchers who, at the
The respondents of the study were selected Grade 11 students of Saint Mary
Magdalene School. It is comprised of old and new students who are currently enrolled in
the said school. The researchers have chosen the respondents because most of the Grade
11 students are new students in the school which makes them unfamiliar with the
philosophy of DICES and of the school, which is independent learning. In the same
manner, they considered that the respondents are considered as one of the sectors in society
that are affected by COVID-19. On the other hand, the researchers decided to utilize
questionnaires as the instrument of the study to evaluate the effects of independent learning
on the students’ academic performance in terms of (a) motivation; (b) environment; and
(c) level of focus. The said instrument was also utilized to utilized the different approaches
of the respondents on independent learning. Also, the research methodology used in this
study is surveying because it suits the context of both the researchers and the respondents
Definition of Terms
The following definitions are provided to ensure the uniformity and understanding
Academic pertains to the scholarly work of the students which involves learning
Activities refer to the tasks provided by the teachers that the students need to
where students have an opportunity to extend their learning and develop self-management
Learning approaches are the ways in helping the learners to effectively experience
independent learning.
Philosophy is the set of values, customs, and beliefs that helps an institution to
formulate possible ways in addressing the needs and concerns of its stakeholders.
Self-paced is working and doing tasks on your own without too much help from
other people.
Students are the main respondents of the study since they have direct experience
Teachers are individuals who are tasked to guide and support the students in
instilling in them the skills that they needed to experience independent learning effectively.
Conceptual Framework
Student’s
Behavior and
Approach
The researchers constructed a graph that illustrates the content and extent of the
study (Figure 1). The graph consists of indicators and factors of independent and dependent
variables that are used in this study. The researchers find independent learning as the
independent variable of this study for it is the concept that mainly affects the academic
several indicators that affect the totality of the study such as motivation, environment, and
level of focus.
On the other hand, the academic performance of the students is considered as the
environment, and level of focus of independent learning such as the grades of the students,
their learning outcomes, and their various learning areas in the school. Furthermore, the
academic progress of the students may vary due to the indicators of independent learning.
However, both independent and dependent variables are affected by another variable which
is the behavior and approach of the respondents on both independent learning and their
affects the relationship between the independent and dependent variables which the
Theoretical Framework
The researchers used Cognitivism and Andragogy as their guide in this study.
organized, structure, and simple presentations. It implies that effective learning can be
attained through the use of engaging and appealing instructions that motivate students to
learn intensively. Such instructions allow the students to actively participate in the different
activities that their instructors will provide and at the same time, will enjoy doing and
accomplishing those. They added that a learner can be extrinsically motivated. It means
that the learners can feel motivated not only within the limits of themselves but through
the external factors as well which they can utilized to improve their learning.
In a wider perspective, Cognitivism does not only focus on motivating the learners
to study more through the help of engaging and appealing instructions. Hence, it also deals
with the process of how the students come up with their answers on activities that require
support from their schema. Through utilizing the prior knowledge of the students in
answering the actions, the teachers can trace the progress and development of the students
and the process that they went through while learning independently. Thus, it theorized
that learning effectively under independent learning requires instructions and directions to
be engaging and appealing to the students so that they can feel motivated even without the
intervention of the teachers. Additionally, it can be used as an avenue for the teachers to
track the progress of students in accomplishing the activities with the help of their schema.
Another theory used by the researchers in this study is Andragogy which states that
learners are independent learners and that they can learn with minimal assistance from the
espouses the idea of adults as self-directed learners who require little help from instructors.
Like independent learning, the students are taught how to learn on their own without
assistance from their instructors. However, this concept is contrasting to some due to the
concept that they believed that some learners still need more assistance from their teachers
teachers. Thus, “Educators and researchers acknowledge that adult learners cannot be
stereotyped for their learning abilities and motivation to learn” (McClellan and Conti,
that teachers can also have the opportunity to create and design activities that are engaging
to the learners which could help them to be encouraged to strive more in being an
independent learner. Educators may benefit by investing time and effort in designing and
developing videos and activities which the learners can then utilize to improve learning at
their own pace (Arghode et al, 2017). Allotting time to develop and formulate activities
that are appealing to the learners might have a huge impact on their academic development
and state of learning. Nevertheless, they argued that Andragogy emphasizes individual
motivation and proactivity more than imposing concepts and learning. This gave the
researchers an impression that Andragogy shares some concepts with Cognitivism in terms
of motivation towards learning. Thus, Andragogy theorized that self-paced learners should
be aware of the minimal assistance from their teachers since they are using independent
learning as their method of learning. Moreover, it proposed that the activities provided by
the teachers must be engaging as well for it allows the students to feel motivated which
may increase their level of learning despite the limitations of independent learning.
CHAPTER II
This chapter reviews some local and foreign existing relevant literature and studies
about the effects of independent learning on the academic performance of the students. The
independent learning, the learning approaches used, and its importance, especially to the
students.
Independent Learning
Independent learning is an integral part of the learning and teaching process where
students have an opportunity to extend their learning and develop self-management skills
(Suriaman, 2015). The students extend their learning by having authority and control over
their learning. Furthermore, this method of learning provides room for opportunities for
the students as they develop their cognitive skills and prowess that may be useful for their
future endeavors in life. By providing them the chance to take action on their studies, they
are made responsible and aware of their duties as students. Thus, independent learning
equips the students to be responsible for their studies as they have control over it.
learning as “a kind of instruction that proceeds based on the learners’ ability and responses
to instructional and pedagogical interventions. This implies that this method of learning
allows the learners to master their learning while focusing on their ability to respond to
different techniques of teaching. And it is clear that it enables them to make use of their
abilities, either achieved or ascribed, to make their learning experience worthwhile through
the support of “learning resources, including libraries, online materials, and learning
environments, and physical learning spaces” (Jones, Ottaway, & Thomas, 2015). Thus,
guided by curriculum content, pedagogy, and assessment, and supported by staff and the
learning environment, and in which students play an active role in their learning
Despite the effectiveness of independent learning, there are still some challenges
that can be encountered along the way which are meant to be addressed by the
by Bautista (2015), he concluded that “great impact of self-paced learning prototype was
observed among high ability students; however, the marginal impact was observed among
low ability students.” By using the three reasons developed by Knowles (1975, as cited in
can only be effective for those proactive students who do not need much assistance from
their teachers. On the other hand, it may be not as effective for the reactive learners who
tend to seek assistance from their teachers rather than by learning alone. Consequently,
there is a wide gap between the proactive and reactive learners in terms of the effectiveness
of their learning under independent learning. However, in the context of a health crisis, it
is noticeable that most of the schools had already shifted to independent learning to avoid
physical contact between the students and teachers which resulted in learning alone without
too much guidance and support from the teachers. Thus, studying independently amid a
pandemic is quite favorable for proactive learners since they can handle their learning on
their own. However, it is directly opposite to reactive learners who always rely on their
In a similar study, (Abria, Abraham, Lupian, & Copino, 2020) found that “the
students disagreed with the use of Self-Paced Learning (SPL) as if it promotes greater
participation and interaction.” This is an issue for the students because what SPL promotes
is the opposite of what the students are currently experiencing. SPL tends to advocate for
a learning experience that is adaptive to the individual needs of the students. On contrary,
they found that “students should be given more time in answering the tasks, the teacher
should provide precise and explicit instructions, and the teacher should enhance functions
that will meet the student’s skills.” Such findings posit that self-paced learning, another
term for independent learning, is not suitable for every student regardless of their capacity
to learn. Therefore, “students’ needs should be assessed and addressed” (Suriaman, 2015)
through evaluating the needs and concerns of the learners that the schools and their
administrators can come up with some solutions that can reduce the burden of the learners.
In this manner, students may experience better learning while utilizing self-paced learning
In addition, the role of the teachers is important as well in ensuring the quality of
strategies (Fernandez, Queroda, & Sison, 2019)” to the students. Nevertheless, not all
teachers have the capacity to do such which directly affects the students including their
learning. One of the roles of the teachers is not only to provide knowledge to their students
but to make knowledge acquisition a motivating one. This can be done by utilizing different
learning materials which include technology as one of its major components since it is
more suitable to use nowadays. According to (Asghar & Rashid, 2016), the “use of
technology has a direct positive relationship with student’s engagement and self-directed
learning.” It implies that technology can be of great use by teachers and instructors in
motivating the students to engage in independent learning. Thus, using all the available
help them in fulfilling their incapacity in creating instructional strategies that will evoke a
Like any other method of learning, independent learning requires several different
strategies of the teachers or on the habits of the students. According to the study of Stoian
(2016), “to efficiently achieve the differentiated learning, there is a required combination
of organizing forms of learning and a stimulus for pupil’s collaboration which increases
their motivation for learning.” Organizing forms of learning can be experienced through
differentiated instructions provided by the teachers which can evoke a sense of motivation
on the part of the students. It can be a mixture of teacher-student discussion that provides
an opportunity for the students to learn in real-time with their teachers; and asynchronous
activities that give them ample time to learn by themselves. Furthermore, the activities to
be provided by the teachers must evoke a sense of motivation on the part of the students
for this “ingredient” will allow them to actively engage and participate in learning
learning skills in the first year: A positive psychology strategy for promoting law student
instructions from the teachers. Instructions that are well-planned and carefully made gives
more room for the students to explore more of themselves as they develop the skills that
understandable instructions, the students can understand and grasp the lesson effectively
In the study of Abrahams, Bennett, & Cukurova (2018), independent learning was
categorized into guided and un-guided independent learning. They found out that “guided
knowledge in novel situations.” The knowledge of the students is essential in aiming for
their progress and development in their studies and applying such knowledge into real-life
situations is integral in the formation of the students for the real world. Thus, knowing that
independent learning can provide such capacity for the students is an implication that this
approach is effective in terms of knowledge acquisition. On the other hand, they found that
which may not be good for the students. Leaving the students in learning alone may not
help them in seeking progress in their studies since they lack guidance and proper
orientation of the things that they must do. Thus, they recommended that “guidance in
independent learning is a key necessity” which posits that independent learning does not
mean studying alone without any help from others. The guidance and assistance from the
teachers are still vital on the part of the students for they are tasked to teach them the skills
they will need in independent learning. Without it, the students may not be on the right
Most studies about independent learning or self-paced learning found out that
motivation is a key factor that can affect the academic performance of the students. This
was proven by Bautista (2015) in his study “Optimizing Classroom Instruction through
between their internal drive and their academic performance” which poses that motivation
must be taken into consideration in the academic performance of the learners. The internal
drive of every student dictates how he or she will perform towards his or her studies which
has a direct impact on his or her overall progress. Therefore, considering the importance of
motivation to the students can be a ground for the teachers to find ways in making their
students motivated in learning. This may be in any form of activity or interaction that must
elicit the profound interest of the students in learning which was proved by Stoian in her
study. Nonetheless, ensuring that students are motivated to learn is fundamental especially
in independent learning since it focuses more on their inner ability to learn on their own
with adequate guidance and help from others particularly their teachers. Thus, eliciting a
sense of motivation in every student is an approach that can help them improve in their
studies.
students, there are still considerable reasons to tackle the importance of this method of
learning especially in times of health crisis. In the study of Suriaman (2015), she argued
that “independent learning addresses the needs of individual learners for independence and
active participation in their learning.” Such needs were posed as difficulties encountered
by the students in independent learning which are addressed by the learning approaches
mentioned in this study. It is through learning independently that students can practice their
skills with minimum assistance from the teachers. This approach also enables students to
be responsible in their studies by doing the required tasks without too much intervention
from the teachers. The abovementioned claim of Suriaman was supported by the findings
of Abria, Abraham, Lupian, & Copino (2020) that “using a self-paced learning module is
Considering the context of the world today, it can be seen that a shift in education has been
made to address the needs and concerns of the academe. It is on the preceding claim that
independent learning used in modules is a beneficial replacement for the conventional way
of conducting classes. Thus, utilizing independent learning addresses the needs of the
students for it was proven to be a substitution to the old way of conducting classes.
teachers, it is essential to consider instilling the skills that the students may use in having
important strategy that will contribute in addressing the issue” (Duffy, Field, & Huggins,
strategies for supporting the first year university experience, 2014). It is another way of
eradicating the problems encountered by the academe in which the role of the teachers is
still significant. Without the teachers and their support, students cannot learn and adapt
such skills that they can use in their studies. Therefore, this can affect the learning styles
of the students which are supported by the study of (Paspasan, 2015) on relating learning
styles in teaching trigonometry. His study shows that there is a “significant difference on
the respondents learning styles and level of performance, established independent learning
By using the skills instilled by the teachers in the students, they can have the opportunity
to adapt existing learning techniques or even to create one of their own. He also added that
the Self-Paced Modular Approach (SPMA) made the students’ learning styles more
independent because they prefer to work at their own pace. This supports the nature of
independent learning of learning at their own pace since it must exhibit the control and
Lastly, Jones, Ottaway, & Thomas (2015) said that “directed independent learning
seems to be more effective when it is fully integrated into the program of study” wherein
it gives room for the schools and its administrators to craft possible ways and approaches
in attending to the needs of the students. This method of learning must be fully rooted in
the entire philosophy of the institution so that it may become a basis for them whenever
creating ways to improve the learning and teaching experience of the students and teachers,
Lupian, & Copino (2020) which proved that “self-paced learning is flexible and convenient
that enhance the student’s ability as an independent learner.” This manifests that despite
the challenges and problems encountered by students and teachers in independent learning,
it continues to have a favorable impact on them as it improves not only the capacity of the
students to learn independently but also the learning and teaching experience of both
convenience and sufficient capability for the learners to become an independent learner
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
This chapter discussed the research design of the study. It also described the
population of the study, the sampling technique, and the research instrument used in
gathering data for the study. It also exhibited the data gathering procedure and the statistical
treatment of data that are used to obtain the results and interpretation of the study.
Research Design
In this study, the researchers used a descriptive research design to determine the
and it focuses more on the “what” than the “why” of the research subject (Bhat, 2020).
There are three main types of descriptive research methods: observational, case
study, and survey methods. In this study, the survey method is used wherein the questions
are administered to the respondents. Their responses were given descriptions and
Sources of Data
The population of the study was forty (40) respondents which were randomly
selected from the Grade 11 Senior High School students of Saint Mary Magdalene School,
Academic Year 2020-2021. These target respondents are defined as students who were
currently experiencing independent learning in the same academic year. They have also the
background about the research study to ensure that the respondents understand the
information contained in the survey questionnaire. A letter of request was sent to the
research mentor beforehand as a sign of seeking approval and consent to survey the target
respondents. The letter also contains the request of gathering the population of all Grade
11 students who are currently enrolled at Saint Mary Magdalene School, Academic Year
2020-2021.
The questionnaires were distributed to the selected Grade 11 students from the
Senior High School Department of Saint Mary Magdalene School, Academic Year 2020-
2021 in a form of a link directing them to Google Forms. Google Forms was utilized in
this survey since the researchers cannot conduct the distribution of the questionnaires to
the respondents personally due to the restrictions brought by the pandemic which requires
the researchers and the respondents to be at their respective homes. To aim at the forty (40)
respondents required for this study, the researchers equally distributed the respondents to
the eight (8) sections of Grade 11 which resulted in five (5) respondents from each section.
The collected data from the instrument were tallied and tabulated properly by the
researchers.
Research Instrument
study to achieve the objective of the research. The questionnaire was divided into three
main sections: the first part contain the demographic information needed to identify the
profile of the respondents including their age, gender, and strand; the second part contains
rate and scale questions to determine the effects of independent learning in terms of
motivation, environment, and level of focus which can be answered with always,
sometimes, rarely, and never; and the last part contains an open-ended question that aimed
to identify the approaches of the respondents towards independent learning. For the validity
of the research instrument, the questionnaire used was validated by the research consultant
For a clearer interpretation of the data gathered from the survey questionnaire, the
1. Simple Percentage. This was used in describing the demographic profile of the
𝐹
𝑃= 𝑥 100
𝑁
2. Weighted Mean. This procedure was used to measure the extent of the effect of
∑𝐹
𝑊𝑀 =
𝑁
∑ = 𝑆𝑢𝑚𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑠𝑦𝑚𝑏𝑜𝑙
𝑊 = 𝐴𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡
The following scale was used in interpreting the computed weighted mean:
Descriptive
Weight Scale/Range Description
Equivalent
4 3.26 – 4.00 Very Great Extent VGE
3 2.51 – 3.25 Great Extent GE
2 1.76 – 2.50 Moderate Extent ME
1 1.00 – 1.75 Little Extent LE
Table 2: Scale Used for Interpreting the Weighted Mean
𝑈𝐿 = 𝐿𝐿
𝑆𝐼 =
𝑁
𝑈𝐿 = 𝑈𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝐿𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡
𝐿𝐿 = 𝐿𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝐿𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡
CHAPTER IV
This chapter presents the data gathered, the results of the statistical analysis, and
the interpretation of the findings. These are presented in tabular form following the
Introduction
The main objective of the researchers in this study is to determine the effects of
researchers surveyed through Google Forms with only forty (40) respondents due to the
current situation of society. Furthermore, the researchers ensure that the results of the
survey conducted are valid and credible and that they come solely from the respondents.
Age. Table 3 shows that 26 out of 40 respondents (65.00%) are 17 years old, 11
(27.50%) are 16 years old, and 3 (7.50%) are 18 years old. None of the respondents
gathered ages 15 and 19. Based on the findings of the online survey conducted by the
researchers, the majority of the respondents who are Grade 11 students are 17 years old.
The data posits that 17 years old, having the highest number of respondents, is the suitable
age for Grade 11 students and for the respondents to understand and grasp the content and
questions included in the survey of this study. Nevertheless, this stage in the development
process of an individual is where students can already learn to study independently as their
preparation for higher education and as a part of their process to maturity as well.
Gender. Table 4 presents that majority of Grade 11 students are female (60.00%)
which outnumbered the male Grade 11 students (40.00%). Based on the findings of the
online survey conducted by the researchers, most of the respondents are female which
poses that female Grade 11 students likely have a high level of volunteerism to answer the
survey than male Grade 11 students. Furthermore, the data affirms that female Grade 11
students are more interested to be part of this study which will benefit them, particularly in
their studies.
Strand. Table 5 exhibits that 25 out of 40 respondents (63.5%) are taking the
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) strand, 10 (25%) are taking
Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand and 5 (12.5%) are taking Accountancy,
Business and Management (ABM) strand. Based on the data gathered by the researchers,
the majority of the respondents are taking Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (STEM) strand. This implies that most Grade 11 students are inclined with
sciences and mathematics which may be a preparation for their higher education. However,
despite the outnumbering of the STEM strand, this shows that each strand that Saint Mary
Magdalene School offers has representations that are vital for the entire study.
1. find themselves
6 21 11 2
motivated under 2.78 GE 3
(24) (63) (22) (2)
independent learning.
2. have the desire to study
6 32 2 0
under independent 3.10 GE 2
(24) (96) (2) (0)
learning.
3. experience at least one
of the following that
makes you feel
unmotivated under
independent learning.
(High Academic 16 24 0 0
3.40 VGE 1
Standards, Lack of (64) (72) (0) (0)
Facilities and
Equipment, Overload of
Tasks and Activities,
Minimal Teacher
Assistance)
4. are satisfied with your
3 17 13 7
learning under 2.40 ME 4
(12) (51) (26) (7)
independent learning.
Overall Average Weighted
2.92 GE
Mean
average weighted mean of 2.92 indicating great extent which is also posted on the two
indicators included. The third item about the students experiencing at least of the
difficulties indicated that makes them unmotivated under independent learning posed the
highest weighted mean of 3.40, ranked 1. On the other hand, the fourth item about students’
satisfaction with their learning under independent learning posed the lowest weighted mean
of 2.40, ranked 4. The item about the students finding themselves motivated under
independent learning garnered a weighted mean of 2.78, ranked 3, while the second item
Based on the data gathered by the researchers, it implies that the respondents feel
unmotivated in studying under independent learning which leads to loss of their desire to
study which is also affected by the difficulties related to independent learning that they
experience. It has been revealed that they are not too much motivated in studying under
learning such as high academic standards, lack of facilities and equipment, overload of
tasks and activities, minimal teacher assistance. Nevertheless, it led to an increase in their
desire to study more under independent learning while using the different learning
approaches that they are familiar with. However, the respondents’ satisfaction went down
internal drive and their academic performance. Considering the motivation, the internal
drive of the students can lead to huge development in their academic progress.
Furthermore, it indicates how well a learner performs on his or her studies which have a
proportional impact on his or her entire progress. Therefore, giving importance to evoking
the sense of motivation or the inner drive of the learners can be a big step in making the
overall weighted mean of 2.99 indicating great extent which is also posted on one of the
indicates included. The third item about the students’ preference in studying at school
rather than at home before the pandemic happened gained the highest weighted mean of
3.73, ranked 1 while the first item about the satisfaction of the learners with their set-up of
learning for the school year 2020-2021 obtained the lowest weighted mean of 2.20, ranked
3. The item about the students experiencing difficulties with their environment for the
Based on the findings, the respondents are not that satisfied with their working
space or area as their environment for the school year 2020-2021 which are also affected
by some difficulties that they experience in terms of their surroundings. Learning at home
without sufficient guidance from the teachers is a huge challenge on the part of the students
which may result in confusion regarding the subject matter and insufficient learning from
learning alone literally. This was proven in the study of Abrahams, Bennett, & Cukurova
the number of student misconceptions.” It posits the fact that questions and clarifications
from the learners will arise while learning and by considering such action from the students
that the teachers must be prepared to answer and give clarifications to the students in light
of the confusion and misconception of the topic. Thus, this may be one of the difficulties
that the respondents experience which makes them feel unsatisfied with their learning
Level of Focus. Table 8 manifests the analysis of the respondents on the effects of
independent learning in terms of the level of focus on their academic performance with an
overall weighted mean of 2.99 still indicating great extent which is also posted on all of
the indicators included. The second item about the students getting easily attracted while
studying at home gained the highest weighted mean of 3.18, ranked 1 while the first item
about the level of focus of the students on their learning under independent learning posed
the lowest weighted mean of 2.80, ranked 2. From the data gathered by the researchers, it
hinted that the respondents get easily attracted while studying at home which led to the
downfall of their level of focus while studying under independent learning. Thus, learning
techniques may be crafted to help the learners stay focused and goal-oriented towards
His findings showed that there is a significant difference in the learning styles of
the respondents and their level of performance. Formulating learning strategies that are
personalized for the learners is made possible by using the skills instilled in the learners
which they can use in improving their independent learning experience. Moreover, it is a
suitable way for the students to determine the possible solutions that will suit their needs
important to consider the level of focus of the learners as they thrive in learning
independently.
Approaches in Adapting
Independent Learning
Frequency Percentage (%) Rank
The students adapt
independent learning by:
1. managing their time. 16 20 2
2. setting goals. 9 11.25 5
3. motivating themselves. 14 17.50 3
4. being responsible and
10 12.50 4
organized.
5. avoiding distractions. 7 8.75 6
6. taking care of
6 7.50 7
themselves.
7. studying intensively. 18 22.50 1
Total 80 100
18 out of 80 responses (22.50) study intensively, 16 (20) manage their time, 14 (17.50)
intensively, 7 (8.75) avoid distractions, and 6 (7.50) take care of themselves. Based on the
findings, the respondents have a wide array of strategies and ways in adapting independent
learning which could help them improve their academic performance. Some wanted to be
organized and responsible by managing their time and setting some goals. Others wanted
to have more time for themselves as a way of motivating and taking care of it. Nevertheless,
there are still others who intended to study hard and intensively by finding ways in helping
regulation and self-monitoring is a good start to explore and discover new things in
whatever lessons and learnings they might receive in a course subject.” They argued that
allotting students' quality time to assess their performance and capabilities can help them
discover more beyond the facts of the subject. It may also help them to be equipped as they
continue their journey to higher education a year from now. Therefore, the researchers can
assert that the approaches mentioned by the respondents can be applied to their specific
situations and needs since these can be considered as forms of assessment and monitoring
Summary
After implementing the data gathering procedure of this study, the researchers
found out that the majority of the respondents experienced difficulties under independent
learning which manifested in the decrement of their motivation in learning. This also
affected their satisfaction with their learning which is integral in the holistic development
of a learner. The researchers also noticed that the problems which the learners encounter
within their learning environment create conflict between their progress in learning and the
desire to learn amid a pandemic. Thus, it hinted at the preference of the respondents in
choosing to study at school rather than at home which must be taken into consideration
Furthermore, they found that the respondents get easily distracted when studying at home
that led to the decrease of their level of focus in studying. Nevertheless, the researchers
discovered some ways used by the respondents in adapting and considering independent
consist of, but not limited to, allotting quality time for themselves, managing their time,
and setting goals both for the short-term and in the long run. In the end, the respondents
still need adequate help and support from their teachers since they do not too much
experience from them. Without their assistance, students may continue to feel unmotivated
and unsatisfied which is detrimental on their part especially on their academic progress.
CHAPTER V
recommendations based on the data analyzed in the previous chapter. This study was taken
with the general objective of evaluating the extent of the effects of independent learning
Summary
This study focused on the evaluation of the effects of independent learning on the
academic performance of the respondents. After administering the survey and analyzing
the data gathered, the researchers found that independent learning is a key factor in the
academic performance of the respondents which is manifested in their level of focus and
motivation, and in the difficulties that they encounter in their learning environment and
independent learning as a whole. This was proven more by one of the findings of this study
that the student's learning environment is integral and that it can affect their learning
entirely. However, there are still some respondents who continue to be positive by being
continuously motivated and satisfied with their learning. Some of them also find no
problem with their learning environment since learning at home is not already new to them.
Furthermore, the researchers explored the different approaches and ways of the
respondents in adapting independent learning as their learning method for the school year
2020-2021. Some of these focuses on giving priority to themselves, including their physical
and mental health, in managing their time wisely, in setting up goals, and in motivating
themselves which the researchers considered as ways in improving the wellness of the
students. However, other approaches deal with studying more intensively, avoiding
distractions, and being responsible and organized students which are more technical in
Conclusions
of the country at the present. This allowed the education sector of the country to find ways
to cater to the needs and concerns of the learners while being preventive from the COVID-
19 that caused an emergence of a pandemic. Due to this fact, some schools deviate to
another method of learning where it will address the needs of both teachers and students.
Independent learning is one of those other methods of learning that was considered by
schools and universities of today. It allows the students to develop and enrich their sense
Therefore, to further understand the different facets of independent learning and its effects
on the learners, the researchers gathered adequate information from the selected Grade 11
students of Saint Mary Magdalene School regarding their experience in using the same
method of learning.
The researchers concluded that independent learning has significant effects on the
academic performance of selected Grade 11 students which was noticed on the level of
focus and motivation of the respondents and also on the difficulties they experience in their
learning environment. Thus, they reject the null hypothesis that is contrary to the main
findings of this study. This was proven wrong by the variables that affect the students in
learning independently, decrement of motivation to learn, and the lack of guidance from
the teachers. The level of focus and motivation became a huge factor in the learning
experience of the learners in which this study proved that such factors decrease due to the
current context of education today. Moreover, the learning environment of the respondents
became a contributing factor to their academic performance since most of them struggle to
learn at home. These factors present in this study can be addressed by the approaches that
the learners used in addressing independent learning as their method. Furthermore, the
findings of this study showed that their experience is to a great extent which proves that
Recommendations
Based on the findings and conclusions presented in this study, the researchers
suggest to the schools and their administrators to formulate ways in eradicating the
problems included in this study through the help of the school’s philosophy, vision, and
mission. They also suggest a study that would focus on the effective application of the
approaches stated in this study to have a continuity of the concept and a clear direction of
utilizing it. Moreover, they wanted to recommend the future researchers always have the
passion and the desire in finishing their study since this may be affected by the several
limitations that the country has. Do not lose courage in finding solutions to the problems
this study had encountered because you have that perseverance to pursue. On the other
hand, they may also organize a brief yet sounding orientation to their chosen respondents
before gathering data so as for them to achieve the optimal result that can lead to a
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Abrahams, I., Bennett, J., & Cukurova, M. (2018). Students' knowledge acquisition and
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Philippines.
Arghode, V., Brieger, E. W., & McLean, G. N. (2017). Adult learning theories:
Asghar, H. M., & Rashid, T. (2016). Technology use, self-directed learning, student
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Duffy, J., Field, R., & Huggins, A. (2014). Independent learning skills, self-determination
theory and psychological well-being: strategies for supporting the first year
Duffy, J., Field, R., & Huggins, A. (2015). Teaching independent learning skills in the first
year: A positive psychology strategy for promoting law student well-being. Journal
Fernandez, M. M., Queroda, P. G., & Sison, R. S. (2019). Brain-based and individualized
4(1), 108-112.
Jones, R., Ottaway, J., & Thomas, L. (2015). Effective practice in the design of directed
APPENDICES
Survey Questionnaire
A. Binary Scale: This test will determine the effects of independent learning on the respondents in terms of
motivation, environment, and level of focus. Analyze each statement carefully and check (✓) the box that
corresponds to your answer.
Motivation Always Sometimes Seldom Never
1. Do you find yourself motivated under independent
learning?
2. Do you have the desire to study under independent
learning?
3. Do you experience at least one of the following
that makes you feel unmotivated under independent
learning?
High Academic Standards
Lack of Facilities and Equipment
Overload of Tasks and Activities
Minimal Teacher Assistance
4. Are you satisfied with your learning under
independent learning?
Environment
1. Are you satisfied with the set-up of learning for
the school year 2020-2021?
2. Do you experience difficulties with your
environment for the current school year?
3. Before the pandemic happened, do you prefer
studying at school rather than studying at home?
Level of Focus
1. How focused are you on your learning under
independent learning?
2. Do you get easily distracted while studying at
home?
B. Open-Ended Question: This test will discover the different approaches of the students towards
independent learning. Kindly answer the question below with brief and honesty.
What are the things that you do in adapting independent learning as the method of learning of your
school?
(List down your answer below on the space provided)
1. ___________________________________________________________________________
2. ___________________________________________________________________________
3. ___________________________________________________________________________
4. ___________________________________________________________________________
5. ___________________________________________________________________________
Curriculum Vitae
CURRICULUM VITAE
ROSEL A. MATEO
Ville 3, Urban, Salinas
Bacoor City, Cavite
OBJECTIVES:
To learn about the things that I must learn and I want to learn and be successful in
the future as a result of all my hard works.
PERSONAL DATA
Age: 18 years old
Date of Birth: December 23, 2002
Place of Birth: Sto. Nino, Cagayan
Gender: Female
Height: 4’8”
Weight: 37 kilograms
Civil Status: Single
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic
Mother’s Name: Joseline A. Mateo
Father’s Name: Roding B. Mateo
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Senior High School Saint Mary Magdalene School
Poblacion, Kawit, Cavite
2019-2021
Junior High School Bacoor National High School-Salinas Annex
Salinas, Bacoor City, Cavite
2015-2019
Primary Salinas Elementary School
Salinas, Bacoor City, Cavite
2009-2015
SKILLS
• Proficient in making MS Word documents.
• Can do multi-tasking
I hereby certify that the information above is true and correct to the best of my
knowledge and belief
ROSEL A. MATEO
CURRICULUM VITAE
DANNILYN JOY S. RODRIGUEZ
0149 Salcedo 2, Noveleta, Cavite
(0966) 9871641
OBJECTIVES:
To have the opportunity to share and polish not only my knowledge but also my
positive attitude as a determined person.
PERSONAL DATA
Age: 19 years old
Date of Birth: October 11, 2001
Place of Birth: Noveleta, Cavite
Gender: Female
Height: 5’4”
Weight: 37 kilograms
Civil Status: Single
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic
Mother’s Name: Janeth Rodriguez
Father’s Name: Danilo Rodriguez
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Senior High School Saint Mary Magdalene School
Poblacion, Kawit, Cavite
2019-2021
Junior High School Bagbag National High School
Rosario, Cavite
2015-2019
Primary Salcedo Elementary School
Noveleta, Cavite
2009-2015
SKILLS
• Emotional intelligence
• Critical thinking
I hereby certify that the information above is true and correct to the best of my
knowledge and belief
CURRICULUM VITAE
NEIL MARJUNN B. TORRES
3126 Abucay St., Manuguit Subdivision
202, Tondo, Manila
(0999) 7674507
[email protected]
OBJECTIVES:
PERSONAL DATA
Age: 18 years old
Date of Birth: March 21, 2003
Place of Birth: Tondo, Manila
Gender: Male
Height: 5’5”
Weight: 75 kilograms
Civil Status: Single
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic
Mother’s Name: Marites B. Torres
Father’s Name: Maximo Ronaldo C. Torres
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Senior High School Saint Mary Magdalene School
Poblacion, Kawit, Cavite
2019-2021
Junior High School St. Michael’s Institute of Bacoor
Gen. Evangelista St., Poblacion, Bacoor Cavite
2017-2019
Calamba Institute-Canlubang
Kapayapaan Village, Canlubang, Calamba
City, Laguna
2016-2017
SKILLS
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Premiere Pro
• Ability to do multi-tasking
• Attention to detail
I hereby certify that the information above is true and correct to the best of my
knowledge and belief