ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Least mastered learning competencies or least learned skills in Science VI is a common scenario to all Science teachers. One solution perceived by the researchers is the utilization of paper-engineering activities as a teaching innovation to solve the problem. In this action research, the researchers tried to determine whether paper-engineering activities be a tool in teaching Science VI.
METHODS: This is mixed-method action research, with two groups of respondents: pupils, teachers, and the LRMDS Evaluation Committee. There were 156 respondents chosen through a purposive sampling design. In data gathering, the researcher made use of the triangulation technique with questionnaires, school records, and interview records as sources of data. The instrument used were Evaluation Rating Sheets for Print Materials. In comparing the result of the Pre-test and Post-test, as well as the grades of the second grading with the third grading, mean and T-test were used. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data.
RESULTS: The paper engineering activities are effective innovative tools in teaching Science. It enhanced the academic performance of the grade six (6) pupils as evidenced by the increased score in the post-test evaluation of the pupil-respondents. These activities have a high level of acceptability among the three groups of respondents as evidenced by their very satisfactory rating on the materials. Pupils perceived paper engineering to manifest applicable information on the concept, they saw this as an activity that can enhance their knowledge and understanding of the concepts, a memory aid, and a typical example of the principle learning by doing. Other pupil-respondents perceived this as interactive learning material. It made learning difficult subjects fun. Some also realized the integration of mathematical principles in each activity.
CONCLUSION: The findings of the study show that paper-engineering activities qualified in the LRMDS evaluation instrument for Print Resources. The result of the study further shows that the three groups of respondents: pupils, teachers, and parents find the material highly acceptable. The result further revealed that it can enhance the grades of the pupil-respondents. Paper engineering activities are a way of teaching Science less conventionally. It made the topic less boring and more appealing to the younger generation.
KEY WORDS: Paper-engineering, Teaching innovation, Intervention