Project ICY: Improve Computational Skills of Young Learners

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

One of the most important skills that need to be developed in children is computational skills. It is certainly imperative for survival not only in the world of schools but in adult life as well. Math can be a fun and imaginative activity for children and can open doors to all kinds of activities in the modern world. The main goal of having math subject in school is to equip pupils not only in simple computational skills but also with higher order and thinking skills whether for fact gathering, learning new skills, or for pleasure. In Grade III class of Kaytapos Elementary School, it was found out that 6 out of 27 or 22.22% pupils were identified below average and 11 or 40.74% were poor in the mastery of multiplication table for SY 2016-2017. Thus, the 17 Grade III pupils who were poor in the mastery of multiplication table were also identified as pupils at risk in computational skill. Project ICY (Improve Computational Skills of Young Learners) was developed to improve the computational skills of pupils at risk in mathematics specifically in multiplication and division.

METHODS

Project ICY aimed to improve at least 75% on the computational level of the 65% or 17 Grade III pupils from poor to the average level for the period of four months. It utilized different interventions namely: (1) mastery of the multiplication table, (2) use of fuller technique, (3) constant recitation of multiplication table, (4) tapping fast learner for intensified peer tutoring, (4) giving take-home math exercises materials, (5) sufficient supply of exercises, drill cards, and activity sheets, and (5) conducting of award merit system.

RESULTS

The salient findings after the project implementation showed that 14 or 82.35% of pupils from 17 under poor computational skills had improved. Although there were still remaining 3 pupils in below average computational skills, the result exceeds 7.35% more than the expected target.

DISCUSSIONS

Constant monitoring, validation, and tracking of pupils' computational skills level, training of teachers on techniques and appropriate strategies in mathematics, giving take-home math exercise materials, intensified peer tutoring during free time and remediation, and merit and reward system contributed to the success of the project. Through the interview, observation and feedback system validate that Project ICY showed a great help for pupils at risk in computational skills and served as an avenue for enjoyable and amiable time to learn mathematics. It was suggested to have a continuous implementation of Project ICY in all grade level.