Utilization of Thematic-Based Approach among the Grade 8 Students of Sta. Teresa College

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Quality education starts with an effective and efficient teacher with effective teaching approaches. Effective teachers use different teaching strategies because there is no single universal approach that suits all situations. Thematic learning is a newer concept in pedagogy. Thematic learning is an instructional method of teaching in which emphasis is given on choosing a specific theme for teaching or project assessment. Learning through integration of different subject matters can develop more holistic life-long learners. This belief motivated the researcher to conduct this study that addresses the need to evaluate the utilization of thematic-based assessment of the Grade 8 students of Sta. Teresa College in the School Year 2017 -2018.

METHODS

The use of descriptive method was utilized in this action research with the questionnaires as the main instrument in gathering data that would answer the problem posed in this study. It was distributed, collected, tallied and interpreted to come up with the desired output. The respondents of the study were eighty (80) students which was composed of forty (40) male and forty (40) female Grade 8 students of Sta. Teresa College of School Year 2017 -2018.

RESULTS

With the acquired information, the findings were drawn. The learners learned to understand others’ point of view and have patience with others using the collaborative learning approach. This indicates that they find thematic activities meaningful and worthwhile. Despite being comfortable with the group, it can be viewed in this research that dealing with disagreements with other members is difficult for them. The respondents stated that through the actual presentations of the activities, they clearly understand ideas that are different from theirs. Thematic-based activities lessen the work load of the learners as well as the teachers. This shows that thematic-based activities are effective, however intensive support of the teachers is highly recommended.

DISCUSSIONS

A thematic-based approach is designed into a series of real-world, hands-on activities. Well-planned activities should be given emphasis by the teachers and the administration. The theme and the activities should suit learning requirements of every learner. A thorough planning is highly recommended in this approach. The students find learning enjoyable if they could express their ideas freely.