IMPACT OF ACADEMIC VALIDATION ON THE MOTIVATION LEVEL OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study examines how academic validation influences the motivation levels of Grade 11 and Grade 12 students at Bestlink College of the Philippines, Bulacan Campus, during the 2023-2024 academic year. Academic validation, encompassing the acknowledgment and recognition of students' achievements, plays a crucial role in shaping motivation and overall academic success.​ This research employs a quantitative survey design to assess the impact of academic validation on the motivation levels of Grade 11 and Grade 12 students at Bestlink College of the Philippines, Bulacan Campus, during the 2023-2024 academic year. A structured Google Forms questionnaire, featuring Likert-scale items, will be distributed to a selected group of students across various academic strands. The questionnaire aims to capture students' perceptions of academic validation, identify factors influencing their motivation, and explore strategies that could enhance their motivational levels. The findings align with existing research on factors influencing student motivation. Strong support from family, teachers, and mentors, along with personal interest in subjects, have been consistently identified as significant contributors to student motivation.  A meta-analysis by Black and Wiliam (1998) highlighted that formative assessment, which often involves feedback from teachers and peers, can enhance motivation by clarifying learning goals and providing actionable feedback. ​   The concept of academic validation as a motivator is also well-supported. Research by Harackiewicz and colleagues (2009) demonstrated that interventions emphasizing the relevance of course material to students' future goals can increase both interest and performance. In their study, students who reflected on how science courses related to their personal aspirations showed significant improvements in motivation and achievement. ​   However, the study notes some uncertainty among respondents regarding academic validation's impact. This could be influenced by individual differences in goal orientation. Social comparison theory suggests that students' motivation can be affected by their perceptions of peers' achievements, leading them to adjust their own goals and efforts accordingly. For example, students might feel motivated to excel if they perceive their peers achieving high academic standards. ​ The study emphasizes the significant role of academic validation in enhancing the motivation levels of senior high school students. It identifies several key factors influencing student motivation:​  Support Systems: Strong backing from family members, teachers, and mentors significantly bolsters student motivation. This support fosters a nurturing environment conducive to academic engagement.​  Personal Interest: Students' intrinsic interest in their subjects plays a crucial role in sustaining motivation. When students find personal relevance in their studies, they are more likely to remain engaged and committed.​  Academic Validation: Recognition of academic achievements serves as a powerful motivator. However, the study notes that some respondents expressed uncertainty about its impact, suggesting the need for a nuanced approach to validation.​  Opportunities for Growth: Providing avenues for personal and academic development keeps students motivated. When students perceive opportunities for growth, they are more likely to invest effort in their studies.​  Perceived Importance of Education: Students' belief in the value of education for their future goals influences their motivation levels. A clear understanding of how education aligns with personal aspirations can drive sustained effort and interest.​  These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of student motivation, emphasizing the interplay between external support, personal interests, recognition, growth opportunities, and the perceived value of education. Addressing these factors holistically can lead to more effective strategies for enhancing motivation among senior high school students.