NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SELECTED GRADE 12 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between nonverbal communication and academic performance. Nonverbal communication, including gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact, plays an important role in understanding others and expressing thoughts and feelings. Academic performance of the respondents is described in terms of age, gender, and grades. Nonverbal communication in classroom interactions is described through facial expressions, body language, and eye contact. According to the International Journal of English Linguistics (2015), communication has two main forms: verbal and nonverbal, and nonverbal communication has a significant impact on social interactions. This study focuses on Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students and their use of nonverbal communication in relation to academic performance. The study collected data from 200 Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students using a descriptive quantitative research design. The researchers employed a cluster sampling technique and administered a questionnaire to gather information from the respondents. The results summarize the use of nonverbal communication in classroom interactions, focusing on facial expressions, body language, and eye contact. Problems identified included: 144 students (24%) reported a lack of awareness of their nonverbal communication, 110 students (18%) identified as introverted, 108 students (18%) reported poor eye contact or clumsiness with objects, and 129 students (21%) noted misinterpretation of body language. The findings highlight how Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences students at Bestlink College of the Philippines use nonverbal communication in classroom interactions. The study recommends implementing an action plan to improve students’ nonverbal communication skills and to help them understand their current strengths and limitations.