Quadratic Escapade: A Digital Game-Based Learning to Improve the Academic Performance in Mathematics of Grade Nine Students of Bagbag National High School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This action research aims to investigate the effectiveness of the quadratic escapade: a digital game-based learning in improving the academic performance in Mathematics of the grade nine students officially enrolled during the school year 2018-2019 at Bagbag National High School (BNHS) in Rosario, Cavite.

METHODS

This study used Quasi-Experimental Quantitative-Descriptive method using Paired T-test and One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of data utilizing the two-group, control group and treatment group, pretest-posttest design. The chosen participants were 60 grade nine students of BNHS who were identified with difficulties in understanding and mastering the competencies in first grading in Mathematics based from the diagnostic test and pretest. The said students were chosen using a non-random or purposive sampling technique and divided into two groups. One group was assigned as the treatment group while the other was assigned as the control group.

RESULTS

The results of the 20-item standardized test of both groups were compared and were checked for any significant difference. Results revealed that the modification in the teaching-learning process, strategies and materials with the use quadratic escapade: a game based learning in teaching Mathematics in the treatment group highly affected and increased the academic performance of the students compare to control group who received the usual traditional approach of teaching Mathematics. The effects on the academic performance of the students in the treatment group were remarkably high compare to control group.

DISCUSSIONS

This action research also showed that utilizing quadratic escapade: game-based learning increases student's ability to store and recall information, increases student motivation, engagement, confidence, and self-esteem as well as reduces academic related anxiety and helps students apply learning in different contexts. Additionally, game-based learning has the potential to have a positive impact on student achievement. Through effective professional development, educators can improve the technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge required to effectively implement game-based learning into the classroom thereby increasing the chance of game-based learning positively impacting student achievement.