UTILIZATION OF DIGITAL TOOLS IN ENHANCING STUDENT'S ENGAGEMENT OF GRADE 12 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

Digital tools have revolutionized the learning process by enhancing both educational outcomes and student engagement. Within the Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand at Bestlink College of the Philippines, there is a growing need to integrate these tools to foster interactive and dynamic learning experiences. However, the effectiveness of such tools in this specific context remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the impact of digital learning tools on academic achievement and student participation, to provide insights and recommendations for improving teaching methodologies. To identify the role of students and the impact on learning outcomes, this study employed a descriptive quantitative research approach integrated with evaluative research. Cluster sampling was used to select respondents from the Grade 12 HUMSS strand. A structured survey was administered to gather data on students’ experiences with and perceptions of digital technologies. The collected data were systematically assessed to evaluate the effectiveness of these tools in supporting academic performance and engagement. This study explores the role of digital tools in enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes among Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. Findings indicate that the Learning Management System (LMS) is the most widely used digital tool, with students strongly agreeing (mean = 3.38) that it facilitates access to learning materials, supports organization, and encourages participation in discussions. E-learning tools also play a vital role, with a composite mean of 3.37, aiding students in tracking academic progress, accessing diverse learning resources, and engaging in interactive lessons. Similarly, video conferencing tools received a mean score of 3.37, proving effective in helping students catch up on missed lessons and receive real-time feedback from instructors. Despite these benefits, challenges such as digital illiteracy and time management issues remain prevalent, affecting approximately 110 students (17%) in both areas. Digital learning tools play a pivotal role in promoting student engagement and academic achievement by providing accessible learning materials, interactive platforms, and opportunities for real-time collaboration. The results highlight the critical importance of integrating technology into education to strengthen students’ digital literacy, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative skills. However, the effectiveness of these tools depends heavily on factors such as accessibility, teacher training, and the quality of implementation. To fully harness the benefits of digital learning, it is essential to address technical challenges, improve digital literacy, and support students in developing effective time management skills.