One reason why students will be excited and interested to attend Home Economics (H.E) class is a positive perception of their H.E classroom or their learning environment. In some research conducted on H.E teachers’ level of effectiveness, they revealed that many H.E teachers do not utilize appropriate teaching methods and approaches that will motivate students to be interested in this subject. Another reason which is worth mentioning is that teachers take for granted the individual differences of students, not realizing the different learning styles they exhibit.
As observed, another big factor that affects students’ engagement in H.E class is the laboratories that are not functional which implies that laboratories are not equipped with the complete and appropriate tools, equipment and utensils. Lack of maintenance is another factor that affects students’ performance; for instance, the laboratory is not well-lighted and well-ventilated. An oven which is malfunctioning, takes a long time before it is being repaired, the students are even asked to bring their own baking or cooking utensils or equipment in their H.E class.
In line with the goals of Home Economics subject under the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum of 2012, students should acquire knowledge, skills through training in the H. E. laboratory which are relevant to self-reliance. To attain this, there must be interaction between the students and the H. E. laboratory environment, which understandably may influence the students’ achievement.
Apart from actual application of lesson in the laboratory, the students must also consider varied learning environment, the home, the school and the community. All of these help students in their total learning. Among these three, the school is considered as the major component of a good learning environment. H. E. laboratories are critical place for students’ attainment of educational development. Therefor laboratories should be given enough equipment, tools and appropriate maintenance. After all, they are indispensable factor to students’ achievement.
Reference:
B.E. Uwameiye, Literacy and Information and Competence Education Journal Vol. 4, Issue 1, 2015.
By: ASELA V. SILVA |TEACHER III BATAAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL|BALANGA, BATAAN
