“Partisipasyon Ko, Karangalan Ko": An Intervention to Increase the Attendance of Grade 8 Students of Agsam Integrated School in Different School Activities

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In upholding the Vision, Mission, Goals, and Objectives of the Department of Education, a set of yearly activities that aims to develop the learners has been prioritized in schools. But, to some students, understanding the essence of these school activities was not met, which may lead to low participation of the students in such programs and activities. The researcher aims to suggest some incentives to give value to students who participate in school activities, and to encourage those who do not attend.

METHODS

A reward system was used in this study. But first, reasons for not attending the activity have been solicited, stating out their reasons for not attending the program. An intervention was used, to recognize students who were present during the program. Thus, the identified students were given certificates, ensuring points also to their subject teachers. The awards were given every end of the month, as the school provides activity monthly.

RESULTS

After examining the attendance presented by the class monitor, it was found out that few students did not attend the activity, especially the boys. Some of their reasons were, (1) has no interest in the activity, and (2) some were absent that day. But, for those who were able to attend the activity, a certificate was given in response to their utmost participation in the programs and activities. After the said reward was given to those participative students, some of the Grade 8 students who were not around during the activity become motivated to attend school activities again. Those students who were not present during the program were identified and later after the next programs and activities, the attendance of the Grade 8 students increased. There was a significant difference before the reward system was applied and after it was implemented.

DISCUSSIONS

The intervention being used is somehow effective in motivating the students to participate actively in the programs and activities of the school. This will not only focus on the impact of the rewards itself, but rather, practice them to become more participative, and sooner or later, as they'll get used to it, they will attend more programs and activities in school regardless of the rewards at stake.