The Effects of Absenteeism to Selected Primary Pupils of Banjo Laurel Elementary School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Absenteeism, in the school context, is the habitual and continuous failure to attend school. If a child misses eighteen (18) or more days in a school year, he is chronically absent. School absenteeism correlates with poor performance. School intervention regarding absenteeism requires guiding information on where to start. Absenteeism, especially among Kinder to Grade 3 pupils, has been one of the most difficult problems that must be addressed in school. Kinder to Grade 3 pupils belong to primary level.

Absenteeism has been a challenge for Banjo Laurel Elementary School as the teachers observed that many pupils especially from primary levels has been recorded with the most frequent absenteeism. This conclusion is also shown in the SF 2 which has been submitted every end of the month.

This research aims to know the factors that trigger the pupils' absenteeism and its effects to learning outcomes.

METHODS

Using the SF 2, the researcher was able to identify the pupils involved in this study. A questionnaire was given to 15 selected primary pupils of Banjo Laurel Elementary School, School Year 2018-2019. Included in the questionnaire were the different factors to be considered and could possibly the reasons of the respondents for absenteeism.

RESULTS

The very mere reason of this case in the school setting was due to lack of motivation and initiative of the parents to send their children to school. Mostly male pupils had this case. This study revealed that because of lack of motivation and initiative of the parents to send their children to school, pupils became tardy and one with the poorest performance in school.

DISCUSSIONS

Counselling with the parents and with the pupils was conducted to address the case of absenteeism of the child involved. The talk aimed to narrow down the possible outcomes of absenteeism of the child. Different strategies such us involving the pupils to different school-initiated activities would help the learners to be motivated to come to school and avoid absenteeism.