Philippines’ K to 12: Survival Rate of the First SHS Graduates in the Tertiary Education

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The first batch of the Senior High School graduates is now living up their chosen career on the next level. Proportionally, the outcome of their chosen career will validate the controversial K to 12 curriculum. This research extended the investigation on the performance of the SHS graduates in the tertiary level to yield results pertaining to in-demand exits among SHS, the effectiveness of career orientation in secondary education, quality of SHS program, and collegiate learning experiences. This can be of great use in determining the strands to be offered, strengthening career guidance programs, and creating high caliber SHS program.

METHODS

This study is utilized Descriptive Research Design and is treated using a mixed method. The sources of the data are the first batch of graduates of the SHS from the research locale which is Plaridel Integrated National High School, the biggest SHS in terms of population in Nagcarlan, Laguna. Through Slovin Formula with a 95% confidence level and a five percent margin of error, 78 were selected as respondents. Thirty-eight of which belong to ABM, nine from ICT and 31 from HE. They were selected using simple random sampling. A questionnaire was devised and was administered through the online platform in which data privacy was addressed. Data were based on the recently concluded first semester in college,AY 2018-2019.

RESULTS

The data reveals that the most in-demand exit for the first batch of the SHS graduates is higher education. The majority of the 2018 SHS graduates, except that of the ICT, are now pursuing college courses similar or aligned to their strand during SHS. The academic performance of the SHS graduates of PINHS in the tertiary level is very satisfactory as their average grade falls within the category of With Honors (90-94). The study habit that they developed during SHS which is still vital in college is reviewing notes while the most common study habits they formed now that they are in college are self-study and advance reading.

DISCUSSIONS

The SHS program of PINHS is keeping abreast with its goal of producing functional members of the community through leading the graduates to higher education, employment, entrepreneurship, and middle-skill development. Including the non-honors as respondents are suggested for future research. To shed light on educational decisions, this study suggests (1) offering a variety of strands per school;(2) strengthening career orientation in JHS; & (3) including learning experiences like self-study and advance reading.