Assessment on the Impact of Computers and Other Gadgets on the Academic Performance of Grade V Pupils of Looc Elementary School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The advent of computers has changed the idea of teaching and learning. Through this, there has been enhanced learning on the part of the pupils (Ramey:2012). The desire to keep abreast with the changing trend in education made the researcher wonder on the effects of computer usage on the learning of pupils. At the same time, she understands the need to weigh down the advantages and disadvantages of computers in the lives of people, most especially the pupils. In her quest to concretize her observations, she decided to embark on this study.

METHODS

The descriptive survey method was used. In this research, the ninety-one (91) Grade V pupils, ninety-one (91) parents and four (4) teachers of Looc Elementary School answered the questions administered through questionnaires. This study utilized a non-random sampling technique called purposive sampling. This type of sampling suits the study since it was the most appropriate technique for investigating the effects of gadgets to the school performance of Grade V pupils.

RESULTS

In terms of gadgets, 98% of the respondents possess cellphones which pupils use at home and in school. It also revealed that the respondents' main reason for using gadgets is to explore things on their own which, in turn, makes them independent. The respondents' perception of the impact of gadgets on the academic performance of pupils revealed that pupils were updated on different news and events. Gadgets maximize their time for bonding through watching movies and videos. They give the opportunity to fulfill their curiosity with online information all explained at a level that children can understand. They enable the pupil not to do household chores which obtained the highest weighted mean. The paper also examines the data for the perception of the impact of gadgets among parents, pupils, and teachers. This is undertaken to identify whether or not there is a difference in their perceptions. It is found that there is no significant difference among their perceptions based on the statistically treatment applied. The researcher suggested some ways and means for maximizing pupils' learning on the impact of gadgets.

DISCUSSIONS

The results demonstrate the need to have good and open communication between the pupils, teachers, and parents. The school may focus on the extent of use of gadgets by pupils. If the extent of use is known by pupils, parents, and teachers, awareness will be created. Awareness breeds finding solutions and prescribing measures to implement the solutions.