Level of Action Research Competence of Elementary School Teachers in The Second Congressional District of Quezon: Basis for Enhancement Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Teachers are the best catalyst of change. A teacher cannot be a good teacher unless she or he is a good researcher. Action Research is an essential tool in the improvement of teaching-learning process because it promotes innovation among teachers. In this study the researcher investigated the factors that hindered the teachers in conducting Action Research and assessed their Level of Action Research Competence. Developing a research culture among the teachers will be a good solution to problems encountered in the school because a new kind of teaching -learning environment will be established. This also helps teachers for their professional growth.

METHODS

This study made use of descriptive method where questionnaire was the primary data gathering instrument. Two hundred ninety-five(295) teachers from central schools in the Second Congressional District of Quezon contributed in the study. Percentage and weighted mean were used in the statistical analysis of data.

RESULTS

The study revealed that most of the respondents were female and had units in MA, had no Action Research regardless of designation and sex description, less competent in terms of Planning and Result but competent in Acting. Respondents agreed that knowledge, skills, attitudes, lack of financial resources and trainings hinder them in conducting Action Research. The researcher proposed an enhancement program to improve the level of Action Research competence of teachers. The acceptability of the enhancement program was Highly Acceptable. The training matrix set a program for a workshop or seminar type that will help teachers to fabricate and conduct Action Research.

DISCUSSIONS

The results show that intensifying the utilization of Action Research writing will continuously improve the level of competence of teachers. Have coordination with the District Supervisor and principals to strengthen the Action Research project. Provide additional trainings not only to the key teachers of Action Research but involve all teachers that focus on Action Research competencies. Recommend teachers to use Department of Education Quezon CARes: A Guide for Action Research Writers in making their own Action Research for intensified instruction. Integrate the use of the enhancement program during In-Service Training/Seminar Workshop or Learning Action Cell in their respective schools before each school year to empower teachers.