Self-Learning Materials in Science for Students at Risk of Dropping out (SARDO)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In the Philippines, Science education faces a lot of constraints such as shortage of qualified science teachers, lack of quality textbooks, inadequate science materials and equipment, and many more. These problems somewhat contributed to the poor academic achievement of students in some subjects like Science. Low academic performance and competence of students were also attributed to their poor study habits, their lack of interest in learning, and absenteeism during school days. Some of the learners tend not to continue their study and it is reflected in the dropout rate of the school.

METHODS

The researcher identified the least mastered skills of the Grade 9 students from the Diagnostic Test given by the Department of Education. To find out the reasons behind these least mastered skills, the researcher prepares a questionnaire to determine who among them are at risk of dropping out. The Survey instruments (SARDO Profile) were answered by the student respondents. All data gathered from these survey were supplemented by the collected information from observations, documentary analysis, and interviews. Students' report of grades and teachers’ evaluation/ grading sheets from final rating in the previous school year were used to gather data for students' academic performance.

RESULTS

In terms of SARDO profile, the common reason for absenteeism is the personal attitude. Another reason is the family factor/domestic was placed second and school factors was placed third. The Learning outcomes of students at risk of dropping out (SARDO) before the use of self-learning material (SLM). In terms of the level of interest in learning science is lower, while in the academic performance in science describe as beginning or in the learning outcomes of students at risk of dropping out(SARDO) after the use of self-learning material (SLM).

DISCUSSIONS

The use of comic strips as Self Learning Material (SLM) was applied in teaching science for Students at Risk of Dropping out (SARDO) which tackle the concepts of photosynthesis were the primary considerations in conceptualizing self-learning materials. By implementing comic strips the students are able to understand the lesson in science and it will help to the students as an alternative learning tool for the members of the class who can't attend school due to sickness or extra-curricular activities and to those students who are in poor academic performance in school.