International Journal of Research in Engineering, Science and Management 49

Volume 4, Issue 10, October 2021

https://www.ijresm.com | ISSN (Online): 2581-5792

Modular Learning Modality: Effects on the

Mathematics Achievement of Grade-10 Students
in MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School
Noh A. Salapuddin*
Master Teacher III, MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School, Mindanao State University-Sulu, Sulu, Philippines

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the effect of Modular et.al., (2021) suggested that the education sector needs to re-
Learning Modality on the Mathematics Achievement Level of examine and regulate the utilization of technology for
grade-10 students of MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School. Focus emergency remote education to happen between the pupils and
Group Discussion was utilized to define Modular Learning
Modality. The average grades of the grade-10 students were used also the teachers…The results of emergency remote teaching,
to determine the Mathematics Achievement Level. Simple the educational systems worldwide are left with no choice but
regression was used to determine the significant effect of Modular to understand, experience, and accept the great and rapid
Learning Modality on the Mathematics Achievement Level. One change (Camala, citing Hung, et.al., 2020).
Way ANOVA was used to determine the significant difference Modular learning in the remote areas, outside towns and
between the Mathematics Achievement Level when the grades are cities, have experienced problems and incompetence in module
grouped according to sections. The Modular Learning Modality is
effective teaching strategy in achieving very satisfactory delivery. In the town of Jolo, particularly MSU-Sulu
Mathematics Achievement Level. There is significant effect of Laboratory High School where lighting facilities and
Modular Learning Modality to the Mathematics Achievement technology resources are available but just like other schools
Level at 52.6 percent of the average grades accounted by the parents have not attained higher education, remained
regression model. There is significant difference of the problematic to response to the module evaluation and learning
Mathematics Achievement Level when the average grades are activities. Modular educational system and its impact in the
grouped according to sections.
grade-10 students’ mathematics learning may become treat on
Keywords: Modular learning modality, Mathematics the quality of mathematics learning. This study was focused to
achievement of Grade-10 Students. determine the effect of modular learning modality on the
mathematics achievement of the grade-10 students in MSU-
1. Introduction Sulu Laboratory High school.
Education amidst COVID 19 Pandemic forced teachers and
school heads to adopt modular learning modality. The alarming 2. Statement of the Problem
condition “Pandemic” has brought to education doubted school In mathematics achievement as experienced by the grade-10
officials remained undecided for its face-to-face reopening. students, even in the face-to-face classes, difficulties is still
Although, parents and pupils are hauling for opening of the imprinted in the mind of the students. There is no single student,
face-to-face new normal. The government no less than the except born diligent can claim the serious perception that
President of the Republic of the Philippines, Rodrigo Roa “mathematics learning is just a chicken feed” for me. Many
Duterte is still giving warning and in favor of the no face-to- students can still claim mathematics is very difficult subject to
face classes. As an alternative strategy to continue the learn by the average students. This study is designed to
educational operation, modular learning, blended learning and investigate the mathematics learning of grade-10 students in
synchronous learning are some of the immediate recourse for MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School focus on educational
education. modular experience during the COVID 19 Pandemic. Hence,
Since, technology resources remained inappropriate to this study sought to answer the following research questions.
completely maneuver rightful education in the blended learning [1] What is Modular Learning Modality? [2] What is the level
and synchronous learning, the DepEd officially mandated the of Mathematics achievement of grade-10 students in MSU-Sulu
use of the modular learning where modules are centrally Laboratory High School? [3] Is the effect of Modular Learning
prepared by the selected skillful and supportive teachers for the Modality during COVID 19 Pandemic significant to the
different grade levels. The collaborative efforts of teachers and Mathematics Achievement Level (MAL) of grade-10 students
school administrators enlightened parents to support modular in MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School? [4] Is there significant
learning modality, of course, not without problem as Camala, difference of the Mathematics Achievement Level of grade-10

*Corresponding author: asdansalan@gmail.com

N. A. Salapuddin et al. International Journal of Research in Engineering, Science and Management, VOL. 4, NO. 10, OCTOBER 2021 50

students when grouped according to section? opposed to the traditional educational model that simply
provides students with correct answers or facts. To assert the
3. Hypothesis constructivist method, teachers need to provide students with
This study will test the following hypothesis: [1] The lessons that they can employ in real world situations.
effect of Modular Learning Modality during COVID 19
Pandemic is not significant to the Mathematics Achievement 6. Literature Review
Level (MAL) of grade-10 students in MSU-Sulu Laboratory Llewellyn (2007), the 5E instructional model can help
High School. [2] There is no significant difference of the students move from understanding concrete experiences to the
Mathematics Achievement Level (MAL) of grade-10 students application of principles. The model provides students with
when grouped according to sections? opportunities to deeply and meaningfully recall what they
already know at the engagement stage, the instructional task is
4. Significance of the Study identified and introduced to the students. Short activities are
The abrupt decision of the government to stop the face-to- used to engage learners in the lesson and to spur their curiosity
face schooling put the teachers, school officials, parents, about learning. These activities also enable teachers to assess
students and other school stakeholders to the blue and made learners’ previous knowledge, so that connections can be made
them restless to cope with the new teaching modalities such as between past and present learning experiences. In the
modular learning, blended learning and synchronous learning. exploration stage, students are provided with opportunities to
The lack of technology resources such as signal and devices like engage with the materials and phenomena. Students work with
laptop, tablet, computer and cellphone even made the low one another to explore ideas through hands‐on activities. Under
income parents problematic to secure and accomplish the task the guidance of their teachers, students clarify their own
instructed by the schools. This study focused on the Modular understanding of major concepts and skills. The teachers’ role
Learning Modality’s effect on the Mathematics Achievement at this stage is one of a facilitator who provides materials and
(MAL) of the grade-10 students of MSU-Sulu Laboratory High guides students’ focus and concentration while they use their
School. Therefore, the results of the study may provide benefits prior knowledge to compose new ideas, explore questions and
to the supervisors, school heads, teachers, parents, students and possibilities, and design investigations (Bybee et al., 2006). The
researchers. explanation phase focuses students’ attention on particular
The supervisors can monitor appropriate Mathematics aspects of their exploration experiences. This stage provides
Education Strategy amidst the COVID 19 Pandemic crisis to them with opportunities to demonstrate their conceptual
enhance improved learning strategies in the absence of face-to- understanding and process skills. Learners explain their
face classes. The school principal can create effective strategies understanding of the concept and teachers work to address
to enhance easy, simple and realistic teaching activities and misconceptions. Teacher explanations guide learners towards a
learning evaluation. The teachers can implement proper and deeper understanding, which is a critical part of this phase
appropriate Mathematics Education Strategy to enhance (Bybee et al., 2006).
effective distribution, proper orientation, and retrieval of Most parents are ill-equipped to step fully into teachers’
module and do effective monitoring of the uneducated parents, educational roles even under propitious circumstances.
reluctant modular responses, and other learning activities. The Teaching is already a complex task that requires professional
parents can acquire easy and simple modular responses and judgment and expertise that most parents lack (Alterator et al.,
submission to the teachers. The students can support and 2018; Parker & Hess, 2001; Shulman, 1986). On top of that,
manage the parental guidance to enhance high spirit of most parents are either trying to balance an increased role in
educational endeavors towards progressive and effective educating their children with the other job they were already
Modular Learning Modality. The researchers may utilize the doing, or are trying to educate their children while they endure
results of this thesis to include in the related literature and other the stresses associated with the loss of the job they were
components of research works. previously doing (Long, 2020; Harris, 2020). The vast majority
of parents cannot simply step into the role of teacher and do so
5. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework effectively.
The result of the Department of Education (DepED)
This study is anchored on the following theories on
National Learner Enrolment and Survey Forms (LESFs)
mathematics learning. In general, societies rely on two central
survey, out of the 22.2 million enrollees, 8.8 million or 39.6%
institutions to work in tandem to support children’s educational
of total respondents preferred modular distance learning for the
development – the school system and family. This partnership
school year 2020-2021. Further, 3.9 million enrollees 0r 17.6%
supports community resilience in two different ways. First,
preferred blended learning (which uses a combination of
schools are vital partners in the shared work of child
different modalities), 3.8 million or 17.1% chosen online
development. While children’s environments have significant
learning, and 1.4 million and 900,000 enrollees selected TV-
impact on their school-based learning (Fay, et.al., 2020; citing
based and radio-based learning, correspondingly.
Reardon, 2011; p. 10).
In a study done at an American Community College,
Constructivist Theory: constructivist theory invites students
Wenner. Burn, and Baer (2011) demonstrated that students did
to construct their own knowledge through exploration, as
better in remedial math courses when the math was taught using
N. A. Salapuddin et al. International Journal of Research in Engineering, Science and Management, VOL. 4, NO. 10, OCTOBER 2021 51

the context of application to geoscience. The researchers ―Gutenberg‖ or ―printing press‖ moment in education, which
compared two types of remedial math courses, one that used a captures the dramatic way human thinking produces a
traditional approach, and one using the applied math typical in revolutionary movement. The original ―Gutenberg moment‖,
a modular course. Wenner et al. found the modular approach in which took hundreds of years, created the mass production of
a remedial math course was successful, but that the success of books, lower unit cost, democratized ownership of knowledge,
higher levels of student participation and completion depends and assured consistency and quality in transferring knowledge.
on the kind of school, courses, quantitative concepts covered, Today, the innovation and impact of change have accelerated
assessment, and teachers teaching methods. Beneficial exponentially.
instructor participation included an appropriate introduction to The DepEd is providing devices such as computers, tablets,
the modules and instructions on how to navigate testing sites and smartboards to schools that are the Center of Excellence or
and the learning management system. It was also shown to be central schools. Because Technical Elements according to
important that instructors reinforced the adequacy of the Mean-Chin (2020) are the most substantial issue on distance
modules in helping the students pass the post-module quizzes. learning that involves the availability of devices such as mobile
This positivity helped students feel better about themselves, phones, computers, laptops, printers, and internet connection
their performance, and their chances for success; thereby for both students and teachers. To Chen & Huang, 2018; and
motivating them to complete the modules. Finally, when Hussin (2018) these devices are needed for distance learning
instructors made the connection between the math being education and for embracing the 4.0 trend in education, that
learned and its relevancy to real problems, students tended to promotes the use of the E-instruction system, that enabling
complete modules more readily. In the modular approach, learners’ achievement and implementing a task-based and
according to Goldschmidt & Sejpal (2013), teaching enables the performance-based on a specific learning goal.
learner to accept greater responsibility for learning and to have In the report of the DepEd, over 1 million computer devices
control over his/her learning. Goldschmidt & Sejpal (2013) were distributed in 44,155 public schools. But, half of these
stresses further, that on the part of the learner, the modular cannot be lent as they are thin clients – computers meant for
approach demands greater maturity is more suitable for more establishing connections in a far-lang area with a server-based
mature students. In the modular approach, all the capabilities computing environment. Also, Phil Vahey and Jim Vanides,
required to perform are closely related. For them, sets of tasks (2020) claim that there are still significant hurdles to technology
are grouped together. For instance, capabilities required creating more, not less, equitable learning environments. These
financial management in managing an institution that includes hurdles became glaringly obvious in the move to emergency
generation of finances, allocation, accounting, and monitoring. remote teaching during the pandemic. For instance,
In Addition, Gonzales, (2015) states that modular learning is communities must overcome the significant inequalities in
one of the teaching approaches where the students have to learn access — access to computers, reliable high-speed internet, and
everything in the module using their own effort at their own the digital literacy and support required to take advantage of
pace. Moreover, He asserted that the method differs from the learning. Overdependence on technology can be a major
traditional one wherein the students just listen to learn the drawback in the distance learning mode of education, especially
concepts presented by the teachers. Further, in order to surpass when the learning takes place in an online environment. Any
the difficulties faced by the students in the traditional classroom malfunctioning software or hardware can bring an ongoing
situation, He further suggested that the modular approach may class to a standstill and interrupt the learning process. Similarly,
be a good alternative since it is student-centered, self-paced, if a student is not a computer and tech-savvy, his learning
and requires no note-taking. Also, teaching the English experience can be dissatisfactory. (Bijeesh, 2020).
language using a module compared to using a textbook in the
traditional methods meant to increase active learning and 7. Method
improve critical thinking, as well as problem-solving skills. It The grade-10 teachers of MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School
is given the lecturer the opportunity for Proceedings of are using Modular Learning Modality in teaching Mathematics.
SOCIOINT 2021 8th International Conference on Education The researcher used primary data from the records of the
and Education of Social Sciences conducting formative Mathematics teachers to analyze and determine the
assessments in the classroom. achievement level in mathematics. Arithmetic Mean was
Also, Cheng and Bakar (2017) emphasized standardized utilized to interpret the mathematics achievement. Simple
textbooks have their own styles, and the organization of their Regression was used to determine the significant effect of the
contents, depth of coverage of materials, may affect the Modular Learning Modality on the Mathematics Achievement
teaching and learning environment. Thus, according to them, Level. One Way Analysis of Variance was used to determine
the use of a module presents a more flexible learning the significant difference of Mathematics Achievement Level
environment for both instructors and learners. Modular learning when the average grades in Mathematics are grouped according
has been in practice for many decades, but at this moment there to sections.
exists an incredible opportunity to the remarkable learning
process with the power of exploding technological innovation.
As educators and researchers in a leading online university,
educators are poised to offer contributions to the next
N. A. Salapuddin et al. International Journal of Research in Engineering, Science and Management, VOL. 4, NO. 10, OCTOBER 2021 52

8. Results Learning Modality to the Mathematics Achievement Level at

In the Focus Group Discussion conducted by the researcher, 52.6 percent of the average grades accounted by the regression
participated by the grade-10 teachers of MSU-Sulu Laboratory model. There is significant difference of the Mathematics
High School to define Modular Learning Modality, the teacher Achievement Level when the average grades are grouped
participants defined Modular Learning Modality (MLM) is a according to sections.
strategy of teaching characterized by student self-learning pace.
The students are given module prepared by the teachers in 10. Recommendation
Mathematics based on the components such as pre-evaluation The mathematics teachers should continue to use the
(pretest), objectives, module, and post-evaluation (posttest). Modular Learning Modality in teaching Mathematics subject to
Modular Learning Modality (MLM) is effective Mathematics harness very satisfactory Mathematics Achievement Level. The
teaching strategy, the grade-10 students of MSU-Sulu school administrators should support the teachers with the
Laboratory High School has achieved (µ = 87.725) very supply of technical resources such as computer, laptop, tablet
satisfactory in Mathematics. When regressed to determine the and cellphone to modify the teaching learning processes to
significant effect (R = .725; p = .000 at = .05) indicates that other teaching modalities such as blended learning and
the hypothesis is rejected with (R2 = 0.526) emphasized that synchronous learning. The parents should continue to support
52.6 percent of the data are accounted by the regression model. the Modular Learning Modality by motivating their children
Therefore, there is significant effect of Modular Learning comply with the instructions and other activities to achieve
Modality to the Mathematics Achievement Level (MAL) of the further. The pupils should continue to exert efforts to maintain
grade-10 students of MSU-Sulu Laboratory High School. When the Mathematics Achievement Level.
the Mathematics Achievement Level was subjected to test using
One Way ANOVA, the (F = 6.34; p = 0.002 at = 0.05) the References
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[3] Gonzales, Ronald, F. (1997) “The perspectives of Technology
Education.” Techniques: Making Education & Career Connections,
9. Conclusion October, Vol. 72, Issue 7, pp. 60-61.
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science standards in grades 3-8. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
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[5] Bybee, R. W., Taylor, A. J., Gardner, A., Scotter, P. V., Powell, J. C.,
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Origins, effectiveness and applications. Executive Summary.