Aspects Influencing Grade 12 STEM Students at

Lusacan National High School to

Pursue Medical Courses

A Research Paper Presented to Mrs. Yssa Valencia of

Senior High School, Lusacan National High School
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement in

Practical Research 2

By:
Macuha, Julia Marie P.
Pren, Angelane V.
Blanco, Ahron Paul M.
(GROUP 4)

January 2023
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers stand in awe of the boundless wisdom and knowledge that surround
them, and they are humbled by the opportunity to add to it through this research.

First and foremost, the researchers are eternally grateful to their practical research 2
teacher, Mrs. Yssa Valencia, for her unwavering support, guidance and wisdom throughout
this journey. Her expertise and guidance have been invaluable and the researchers are truly
honored to have the opportunity to work under her mentorship.

The researchers are also deeply grateful to their adviser, Engr. Rendel Dimaculangan,
for providing worthy insights that helped shape this research.

The researchers cannot express enough gratitude to their family/parents, for their love,
moral support and encouragement. They have been their constant source of inspiration and
motivation, and the researchers are so grateful for the understanding they have made to make
this research possible.

The researchers also genuinely indebted to the respondents of this research, who have
generously given their time and shared their perspectives. Their contributions have been vital
and have greatly enriched this research.

At last, the researchers would like to express their deepest gratitude to the almighty
God for providing them with the strength, wisdom and knowledge in completion of this
research. Without His grace, this study could not become reality.

This research is a testament to the power of collaboration, mentorship, and support,

and for that, the researchers are perpetually grateful.
 DEDICATION

This research is dedicated to researchers’ loved ones, who have supported them in
every step of their journey; their friends, who have helped them through the ups and downs;
Lusacan National High School – Senior High School, for providing them with the knowledge
and resources to pursue their passions; and to God, for giving researchers the strength to
persevere and blessing them with the ability to make a difference through their research.

May this research serve as a beacon of progress and a catalyst for change,
illuminating the path towards a brighter future for all.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Abstract

Chapter 1
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Conceptual Framework
1.3 Statement of the Problem
1.4 Scope and Delimitation
1.5 Significance of the Study
1.6 Operational Definition of Terms
Chapter 2
2.0 Review of Related Literature and Studies
Chapter 3
3.0 Research Methodology
3.1 Research Design
3.2 The Sample
3.3 Data Collection Instrument
3.4 Data Collection Procedure
3.5 Statistical Technique
Chapter 4
4.0 Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data
Chapter 5
5.0 Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
5.1 Summary of Findings
5.2 Conclusions
5.3 Recommendations

References
 ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to determine the aspects that influence Grade 12 STEM
students to pursue medical courses.

The sixty-eight (68) students from Senior High School of Lusacan National High
School in Bundalian St. Lusacan Tiaong, Quezon, who were enrolled in Grade 12 STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classes during the first semester of the
academic year 2022–2023 made up the research sample. In this study, the descriptive design
is used, and the aforementioned research method was applied to identify the aspects
influencing Grade 12 STEM students to pursue medical courses. The necessary data was
collected using a survey questionnaire as the only instrument.

The study findings indicate that several key aspects drive the decision of Grade 12
STEM students at Lusacan National High School to pursue medical courses. The primary
aspects identified were desire to serve/help others, medical scholarships, and future job
opportunities in the medical field. Lastly, the study revealed that the majority of the students
preferred to pursue Bachelor of Science in Nursing as their medical course of choice.

The research conducted has provided important insights into the aspects that influence
Grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National High School to pursue medical courses. Based
on the study's results and conclusions, it is recommended that the school consider
implementing a medical career orientation program to increase students' awareness of the
important considerations they should take into account when deciding on a career in
medicine. Additionally, the findings of the research suggest that parents or guardians should
also make an effort to understand the reasons behind their children's desire to pursue medical
studies. This research has provided valuable information on the motivations and aspirations
of STEM students, which can inform the development of educational and career guidance
programs that help students make firm decisions about their future careers.
 CHAPTER I:
Introduction

Background of the Study

In recent years, many college students have expressed interest in the medical
academic field. Based on enrollment data from Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in
the Philippines for the school year 2009 to 2010, the number of students took up medical and
allied courses are 440, 266. This huge population of people which considered taking medical
courses gained the attention of different academic authors on the factors influencing their
decisions in terms of choosing medical courses. Medical courses are studies that intended to
teach people who want to become doctors, the knowledge and skills needed for disease
prevention and treatment (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2020).
Chang, et. al (2016) proposed that “Mini-Medical School programs serve an important role in
nurturing student interest in medicine”. Attested by University of California, Riverside
School of Medicine (2013), mini-medical school is a pathway program that assists students,
including those from educationally and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, in
developing skills in preparation for careers in the health industry. Anticipated income in the
future are important concerns of students planning to take medical courses (Grayson, et. al
2012). Parents are major factor in career decision making of student pursuing medicine as
course of study, therefore career guidance and counseling should incorporate parents
(Obadeji, 2019). The geographical location of schools/universities that offer medical courses
may also influence students’ choice to pursue medical courses, as Fowler, B. (2021)
articulated “The most common threads in a student's decision to attend medical school were
the importance of school reputation and campus location”. To study medicine is not only
difficult and exhaustive but as well as expensive. Fortunately, former President Rodrigo
Duterte signed Republic Act (RA) 11509, also known as the Doktor Para sa Bayan Act, on
Dec. 23, 2020 to establish a Medical Scholarship and Return Service (MSRS) program for
deserving students in state universities and colleges (SUCs) or in partner private higher
education institutions (PHEIs) in regions where no SUCs offer a medical course, broadcasted
by Philippines News Agency (2021). Scholarships, according to the University of South
Carolina, School of Medicine Columbia (2020), help ensure that medical students can pursue
their education with minimal financial burden, allowing them to focus on their education,
training, and choosing an area of practice. Furthermore, the alignment of SHS strand/track
was implemented in accordance with the admission requirements of Cavite State University
for the academic year 2021-2022. Due to this, most students who chose the STEM strand
have a good chance of taking medical courses in college.
As reported by UC Davis Health 2021, COVID-19 pandemic inspires students to pursue
medicine and help underserved communities. About half of today’s medical students across
the country started school during the pandemic. Many of them had considered medical
careers all along, and the pandemic merely reinforced their decision. According to new data
from the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges), 2021, applicants to medical
school soared by a record-setting 17.8% for the 2021-22 school year, led by historical
increases.
As observed in the responses of grade 12 STEM RMD students to the question "Why did you
choose STEM strand?" on the first day of class; the majority of the class indicated that they
took it since they prefer to take a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in
Pharmacy, a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, or other medical-related courses
over engineering or architecture. STEM as defined by Encyclopedia Britannica (2015) is an
interdisciplinary approach to learning where rigorous academic concepts are coupled with
real-world lessons as students apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in
contexts that make connections between school, community, work, and the global enterprise
enabling the development of STEM literacy and with it the ability to compete in the new
economy. In addition, based on the Candy Magazine (2021) by Mary Joyce Bernal, science
and engineering courses under this strand have both 14 choices of different courses, which
are quite many compared to the 7 of technology courses while 4 in mathematics courses.
Since medicine is heavily-based on science, STEM is the most ideal strand to take if one
plans to pursue a medical course in the future because the 14 majority courses to be
considered are inclined toward medical education. Zayabalaradjane, Z., et. al (2018) stated
that the choice of medical courses as a higher study depends upon various factors such as
interest in the medical field, good job opportunities, a desire to serve others, medical
background of the parents and many more.
The researchers gather information that there are Lusacan National High School - Senior
High School graduates pursued pre-medical courses. From the class of 2019-2020 graduates’,
they are the following; Lea Ann Maiwat (BS in Psychology), Krizza Carandang (BS in
Biology), Francesca Leycano (BS in Physical Therapy) and Hazel (BS in Psychology). Next
are the batch 2020-2021 graduates; Claire Ann Castillo (BS in Nutrition and Dietetics), Perlie
Ramos (BS in Medical Technology) and Khim Ramos Atienza (BS in Psychology). Lastly,
for the fresh graduates’ class of 2021-2022; Sophia Alexis L. Geronimo (BS in Medical
Technology), Sarah Mae J. Malabanan (BS in Nursing), Ashley D. Robles (BS in Biology),
Yhesia Mae Salazar (BS in Nursing) and Kurtney Reyes (BS in Veterinary Medicine). The
indicated people are likely to pursue medical courses after completing their pre-medical
studies. Apart from that, there are also alumni of Lusacan National High School who took
medical courses specifically Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, they are the Tolentino siblings;
Mr. Joel P. Tolentino, Mr. Jesse P. Tolentino, and Mr. Jay P. Tolentino. Finally, Mr.
Frederick Villaroza who finished MD in General Medicine. The individuals mentioned are
now working in their respective fields.
A numerous quantity of research has already been done about Factors Affecting Students to
Pursue Medical Courses in various countries around the world, which allows everyone to
perceive how relevant the different factors that influence them in choosing medical courses.
This is the primary reason why the Lusacan National High School community requires a
better understanding of those aspects when considering medical courses. Yet, there are not
many research studies in the Philippines that explain why students, particularly grade 12
STEM students, want to pursue those. In view of this, the study seeks to determine the
aspects influencing grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National High School to pursue
medical courses.
Conceptual Framework: Input – Process – Output Model

This demonstrates the conceptual framework that the researchers used, which is in the

INPUT
Socio - Demographic
Profile:
1. Name
2. Age
3. Sex
Aspects Influencing PROCESS
Grade 12 STEM OUTPUT
Students
1. Profiling
1. Personal
2. Survey Medical Career
Questionnaires Orientation
Aspiration
3. Data Analyzation
2. Parents
3. COVID-19
Pandemic
4. Location of
universites
5. Medical
Scholarships

form of an input – process – output model.

This particular framework indicates the input, process, and output of the research. The
input is the independent variable, which contains the socio-demographic and aspects
influencing the grade 12 STEM students or the respondents here in Lusacan National High
School. The process entails the instruments and analysis in collection of data, and finally the
output is medical career orientation for all levels of pupils at Lusacan National High School.
The researchers can be contact by the school staffs including teachers and principal to
provide a free and informative orientation about medical careers.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the aspects influencing grade 12 STEM students at
Lusacan National High School to pursue medical courses.

Specifically, this study shall seek answers to the following questions:

1. What are the things does Grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National High School
(LNHS) consider on choosing a medical course?
2. How does the pandemic affect LNHS Grade 12 STEM students' decisions to pursue
medical courses?
3. Do Grade 12 STEM students of LNHS have personal aspiration in medical courses?
4. Does location of universities that offer medical courses influencing the Grade 12 STEM
students to study medicine?
5. Do scholarships encourage the Grade 12 STEM students to take medical courses?
Scope and Delimitation
The study will cover the determination of aspects influencing students to pursue
medical courses. The primary subjects of this study will consist of the Grade 12 students
enrolled in academic year 2022-2023. The respondents will be limited to 68 Grade 12
students who are under in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
strand of the Senior High School at Lusacan National High School.
Moreover, the study is limited to medical courses and will not attempt to measure this
variable in any other setting. Aspects influencing students will be limited to interest in the
medical field, good job opportunities, a desire to serve others, medical background of the
parents, geographical location of schools/universities that offer medical courses, medical
scholarships, alignment of the strand to the medical courses, and other related things, but will
not include the students' financial ability to pursue medical courses.

Significance of the Study

The researchers believe that the study will not only yield data that will be helpful to
them, more so to the enlightenment of community about the aspects that influence the grade
12 STEM students to pursue medical courses. This study shall be useful to a variety of people
especially to learners, teachers, parents and future researchers.
In particular, grade 12 STEM students can make use of the knowledge that this study will
generate to identify why they prefer to take medical courses than others and what different
aspects help them to build their decision. Thus, students may aspire to really pursue medical
courses without hesitation.
The findings of the study will provide teachers, specifically senior high school teachers, with
empirical information on the aspects that influence grade 12 STEM students to consider
medical courses as a primary college choice. Therefore, it will lead them to have a program
that will make students well-informed about medical courses.
On the other hand, this can be beneficial to parents because they will have a better
understanding of the aspects that influence their children's desire to pursue medical studies.
This can help them assess their children's personal perspectives on course selection.
Finally, the result of the study will guide the future researchers on the matters that convince
the grade 12 STEM students to take medical courses and it will pave the way for more in-
depth research on identical field.

Operational Definition of Terms:

1. STEM- It is consisting of the grade 12 students at Lusacan National High School who
are currently studying under this Science, Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics strand.
2. Medical Courses- is the desire of the grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National
High School to take allied-health programs in college.
 CHAPTER II:
Review of Related Literature and Studies

This chapter discusses the relevant literature and studies that the researchers
considered in strengthening the importance of the current study. It also provides a synthesis
of the art in order to fully understand the research for a better comprehension of the study.

STEM Strand
The STEM Strand was designed to illustrate the close relationship between science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics (Bolds, 2017; Patton, 2013;). It is consisting of the
grade 12 students at Lusacan National High School who are currently studying under this
specific strand. The STEM curriculum differs from the others in that it focuses on advanced
concepts and topics (University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos, 2021). The STEM strand
is intertwined with the general academic track (Tupas et al., 2019). The traditional method is
being replaced by a more innovative approach that places an emphasis on critical thinking
and scientific abilities (Montebon, 2014). To remain competitive in the scientific and
technological pursuits, as well as relevant in a rapidly changing global environment, several
countries around the world are putting a greater emphasis on STEM education (Kazu &
Yalçin, 2021). Furthermore, according to Estonato (2017), STEM is intended to encourage
secondary school graduates to pursue science-related courses at the tertiary level.
Due to its appeal and employment prospects, the STEM strand is promoted to students in the
Philippine context at the senior high level; it is one of the most significant and in-demand
professions (Maksimović et al., 2020), particularly for students interested in future
technological and scientific advancements. Alignment to the favored course in college is the
main cause of the students for taking up STEM concluded by Rafanan et al., 2020. The desire
to pursue a STEM career in college can be ignited (Barnett, 2015). A student's level of
interest in a STEM career will have a direct impact on his or her motivation to pursue one in
the future (Razali, 2021). Personal aspiration and family are the strongest influence of the
students in pursuing a STEM career (Rafanan et al., 2020).
Student satisfaction refers to the emotions felt after participating in technology-based STEM
education. This emphasizes the significance of assisting students with their post-adoption
behavior. (Wu et al., 2021; Kosiba et al., 2022). Student satisfaction has a significant impact
on learning motivation and outcomes (Al-Rahmi et al., 2021; Liao et al., 2022). Student
satisfaction with technology-based STEM education has a strong correlation with learning
outcomes (Zhao et al., 2022). Although Yin and Wang (2015) came to the conclusion that
outstanding teaching had no discernible relationship with students' overall satisfaction, the
study by Zhuang et al. (2019) shows that the manner of instruction had a significant and
beneficial impact on STEM students' program satisfaction through course satisfaction.
Medical Courses
The American educational system had a significant influence on the educational
system in the Philippines, particularly medical education (Gepte, 2018). Medical courses is
the desire of the grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National High School to take allied-
health programs in college. The Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree is a five-year graduate
program that teaches students the fundamentals of becoming a medical doctor. Three years of
academic education, one year of clinical clerkship, and one year of post-graduate internship
make up the curriculum (Shalom Med Education, 2022). According to Roy (2022) and Law
Insider (2013), medical courses are available in a variety of specializations, such as Medical
and Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, Allied Health, Nursing, Health, and Fitness.
According to a study by Bhat et al. (2012), the clinical specialties with the highest preference
were pediatrics, surgery, OBG, and medicine for the majority of medical undergraduate
students (95.3%, n = 250). Weissman (2012) proclaimed that both male and female medical
students chose clinical subjects as their specialty, while none chose basic medical sciences in
Israel. From India, the male medical students prefer surgery while females prefer OBG and
internal medicine (Subba et al., 2012). According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS),
nearly half of all undergraduates worldwide who go on to become physicians and surgeons
major in biology during their undergraduate studies. On the most recent data from the
Association of American Medical Colleges, more than half of all 2021–2022 medical school
entrants majored in biology or a biological science for their undergraduate studies. Based on
Coursera (2022), biology is a popular major among students who want to be doctors or
surgeons.
Medical programs pay well around the world. As a result, it has become the most popular
career/course among both Filipino parents and students (AECC Global, 2022). According to a
Bria report published in 2020, there were 203,561 students enrolled in medical-allied courses
in 2017. BS Medical Technology is one of the most well-liked medical programs in the
Philippines. Here, students acquire the abilities and instruction needed to conduct laboratory
tests through this four-year degree program. These screenings are used to find, identify, stop,
and treat a number of disorders. Additionally, a large portion of nurses sent abroad worldwide
roughly 25% of all foreign nurses come from the Philippines, making it a powerhouse nation
in the nursing industry. Moreover, there were more than 28.8 thousand physicians in the
Philippines as of October 31, 2021. As of this date, the total number of health care
professionals stood at approximately 188.2 thousand published by Statista Research
Department during November 2022.

Medical Schools

Choosing which medical school to attend is one of the most important decisions to
make. "Proliferation of Medical Schools (2014)" by Dr. Fernando S. Sanchez, examines the
trend in the number of medical schools established within the Philippines; Dr. Sanchez brings
up concerns about the quality of medical students and the impact of medical expansion
schools on the quality of medical education. Medical school was used by the researchers as
one of the possible aspects that convincing the grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National
High School to pursue medical studies. Out of the several medical schools here in the
country, there are top performing schools that Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)
recognizes. The physician board exam was administered on October 2022, and the top
performing schools in the physician licensure exams are as follows; Rank 1 – Angeles
University Foundation, Rank 2 – Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Rank 3 – St. Luke’s
Medical Center Coll. Of Med.-William H. Quasha Mem. Inc, Rank 4 – Cebu Institute of
Medicine, Rank 5 – Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, Rank 6 – University of
Cebu College of Medicine Found. Inc-Mandaue, Rank 7 – University of Santo Tomas, Rank
8 – West Visayas State University-La Paz, and Rank 9 – University of the East Ramon
Magsaysay Mem Medical CTR. The schools mentioned above are all having 50 or more
examinees passed and with at least 80% overall passing percentage; as per Commission
Resolution No. 2017-1058 (C) series of 2017, courtesy of PRC.

The fourth edition of the Times Higher Education's (THE) impact rankings for colleges was
issued on April 26, 2022. THE Impact Rankings evaluates and rates universities in
accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations based on
their research output, outreach, teaching, and stewardship initiatives. This year, 1,406
universities from 106 countries and regions participated in the report, which has been
published yearly by the international higher education newspaper Times Higher Education
since 2019. According to the 2022 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, Ateneo
de Manila University remains the leader among Philippine universities in terms of real-world
impact. Times Higher Education (THE) impact rankings place De La Salle University
second, followed by Mariano Marcos State University. Furthermore, THE publishes World
University Rankings, which provide a definitive list of the world's best universities, with a
primary emphasis on research mission. It is the only global university league table that
assesses research-intensive universities on all of their core missions: teaching (learning
environment); research (volume, income, and reputation); citations (research influence);
industry income (knowledge transfer); and international outlook (staff, students and
research). On Wednesday, October 12, 2022, the most recent rankings were released, with
1,799 institutions ranked in this cycle. Ateneo de Manila University makes its first
appearance in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Ranking, ranking 351-
400 in the world's most prestigious institutional rankings. The University of the Philippines
and De La Salle University are the next two. The Ateneo School of Medicine and Public
Health (ASMPH), which debuted in 2007, established a ground-breaking curriculum to
develop excellent physicians, vivacious leaders, and social catalysts. As a center of higher
learning, ASMPH works to change how health services are provided both locally and
globally. Graduates of ASMPH programs are committed to transforming the healthcare
system Ad majorem Dei gloriam (Ateneo de Manila University, 2022). De La Salle Medical
and Health Sciences Institute, also known as DLSMHSI, is an elite institution of higher
learning dedicated to training and forming future medical and health sciences professionals
who will have the commitment and dedication to become catalysts of the spiritual, social, and
economic transformation of our nation. DLSMHSI is a component of De La Salle
Philippines, a network of De La Salle Brothers-managed schools in the Philippines (De La
Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, 2022). Midway through the 1990s, Mariano
Marcos State University developed a Doctor of Medicine program in accordance with Board
of Regents Resolution No. 279, s 1996 to supplement its current health sciences-related
courses. The College of Medicine was granted the Certificate of Program Compliance
(COPC) No. 006 Series of 2019 on June 6, 2019, after meeting the minimal requirements set
forth by CHED for the provision of the Doctor of Medicine Program for the academic year
2018–2019. The college's first class of 14 medical students (Class 2019), out of an initial 18,
graduated on June 24, 2019. As an appropriate tribute to the work put into assembling all of
the structural, academic, documentary, and personal resources required in its MD Program,
numerous luminaries from the medical and educational fields, as well as the university staff
and administration, participated (Mariano Marcos State University, 2019).

The Philippine Star published an article titled "Be Inspired by this Year's Outstanding
Filipino Doctors," written by Mylene Mendoza-Dayrit. It implies that Dr. Maria Minerva P.
Calimag, national president of the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), was the honored
guest at the recent launch of The Outstanding Filipino Physician (TOFP) Search for 2022.
The event took place prior to the 65th National Medicine Week, which is set to take place
from September 18 to 24, with the theme "Nagkakaisang PMA Para Sa Kalusugan Ng
Sambayanan" (PMA United for National Health). Dr. Calimag is a multi-award-winning
physician. The University of Santo Tomas recognized her as the 2022 The Outstanding
Thomasian Alumni (TOTAL) awardee for Medicine (UST). She attended UST from high
school to medical school and then again for her doctorate in educational administration. The
Outstanding Filipino Physician (TOFP) award is a national search held each year to recognize
and honor outstanding Filipino physicians who are at least 41 years old and whose work and
dedication to their profession have contributed in significant and exemplary ways to the
advancement of their calling, fostering patriotism through the prevention of overseas
migration of Filipino doctors, upholding and exemplifying the virtues of community service,
and promotion of the Filipino language (Atienza, B. 2020).The nine awardees of TOFP 2022
were Dr. John Hernani Anacan Jr. of Zamboanga City who went to Central Philippine
University; Dr. Maria Luisa Aportadera of Davao; Dr. Antonio Miguel Dans of Manila who
studied both in University of the Philippines and McMaster University Medical Center; Dr.
Melchor Dela Cruz of Santiago City who attended to University of Santo Tomas; Dr. Fulbert
Alec Gillego of Albay who went to Far Eastern University; Dr. Maria Luisa Otayza of Ilocos
Norte; Dr. Santiago Rodriguez Jr. and Dr. Wilfredo Tagle of Manila who studied at
University of the East-Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center; and Dr. Zaida Sadain-
Urao of Zamboanga City who attended to University of the Philippines.

The aforementioned related literature and studies make it clear that there are
numerous aspects that can influence STEM students, particularly grade 12 students, to pursue
medical courses. It was emphasized that choosing a medical course cannot be driven solely
by one aspect; it can be driven by a combination of internal and external aspects. Several
researchers on the STEM Strand supported this idea, which was strengthened by researchers
on Medical Courses.
 CHAPTER III:
Research Methodology

This section of the study describes the research design method, sample, instrument,
and data collection procedure that are used in gathering and analyzing data relevant to the
research.

Research Design

The study is classified as quantitative research because the research question chose
to address by the researchers has a measurable outcome.

Particularly, this study was descriptive since it aims to identify the aspects influencing grade
12 STEM students to pursue medical courses. In addition, the researchers employed this
method because they are primarily concerned with describing the nature of the demographic
segment present at Lusacan National High School.

According to Rahi, S. (2017), descriptive research relates to the kind of study that intended to
acquire more about the situation of phenomenon at the moment. This kind of research seeks
to present a precise profile of circumstances, individuals, or events.

The Sample
The senior high school students at Lusacan National High School who are enrolled in
the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand during the first
semester of the academic year 2022-2023 were the research participants. The study sample
included 68 Grade 12 STEM students.

The study did not apply any sampling techniques because it utilized the actual number of
enlisted grade 12 STEM students for its respondents.

Data Collection Instrument

The researchers used the survey questionnaire design to gather data on the variables
being studied. This survey questionnaire was research made, which was used to determine the
aspects influencing grade 12 STEM students to pursue medical courses.

On the survey questionnaire, a short letter from the researchers is indicated, stating the
researchers' grade, section, strand, and overall purpose of the study. There are six sections to
the survey questionnaire. Part one is concerned with gathering respondents' demographic
information, which includes their name, age, and gender. Meanwhile, part two of the survey
questionnaire enumerates the various aspects that students may consider when deciding to
take a medical course and requires them to check the yes or no on the box next to each item.
Part three then attempts to identify the pre-medical/medical course that the respondents
desired to pursue. The part four involves determining whether the location of
universities/schools has an impact on participants in terms pursuing medical courses.
Following that, the researchers asked the respondents about any other aspects that influenced
their decision that were not mentioned in the second section. The final section identifies how
helpful the aspects stated on the survey questionnaire are for them to make a firm decision by
checking the following boxes: not all helpful, somewhat helpful, pretty helpful, and really
helpful.

Data Collection Procedure

The subsequent steps provide an explanation of the procedure for gathering the
required data for the study.
1. The researchers first have their practical research teacher reviewed the survey
questionnaire they created.
2. The researchers waited for permission from their practical research teacher before
conducting data collection with the respective respondents, batch one and two of grade 12
STEM students at Lusacan National High School.
3. The questionnaire surveys are presented to the respondents with the assistance of their
practical research teacher, who also serves as the batch two STEM students' adviser. On the
other hand, the survey questionnaires for the first batch are given out during their leisure
periods, such as lunch or in a class that is not in session.
4. In order to increase the percentage of survey questionnaires that has been returned, the
survey questionnaires are collected the same day they are distributed.

Statistical Technique
The statistical technique that the researchers used to determine the aspects influencing
grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National High School to pursue medical courses is
percentage. They utilized it to obtain the accurate percent of the participants’ responses in the
particular part of the survey questionnaire.
 CHAPTER IV:
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND
INTERPRETATION OF DATA
This portion of the study incorporates the figures and table which provides data of the
findings, comprising their appropriate interpretations. The corresponding data are examined
and analyzed as a means to make inferences and recommendations based on the findings of
the study.
Part I. Demographic Profile
This part of the study is made up of figures that contain demographic information
provided by respondents in survey questionnaires. Despite the fact that gender and age were
not the focus to this study, they did help in visualizing the findings and developing proper
recommendations.

Figure 1.

Gender

48% 0.51

Female Male

This clearly demonstrates that the majority of respondents to the survey

questionnaires were female. This specific result was obtained because of the overall
population of 68 respondents, 35 of whom were females and 33 of whom were males. As an
outcome, the chart expresses that there are more females than males among the participants in
this study.
 Figure 2.

AGE
1%

47%
51%

17 years old 18 years old 25 years old

The pie chart depicts the age range of the respondents in this study. It is revealed that
respondents aged 17, 18, and 25 participated in the survey questionnaires. Moreover, 35 of
the 68 participants are under the age of 18, 32 are under the age of 17, and one is over the age
of 25. Therefore, the 18-year-olds have the highest percentage, followed by the 17-year-olds,
and finally the 25-year-olds.
Part II. Aspects Influencing the Grade 12 STEM Students to Pursue Medical Courses
This part outlines the various aspects that grade 12 STEM students considered before
enrolling in medical programs in college. This consists of questions centered on their
considerations.
Table 1.
Questions No. of Yes Percentage
1. Are you considering a career in the medical field? 30 44%
2. Do you have personal aspiration in medical courses? 25 36%
3. Is pre-medical course one of your college options? 29 42%
4. Is it possible that if you take a pre-medical course in 28 41%
college, you will go on to pursue a medical degree?
5. Did you choose STEM strand because it is aligned to 30 44%
the medical courses?
6. Does your family especially parents, friends, relatives 21 30%
and role models encourage you to pursue medical
courses?
7. Did the COVID-19 pandemic made you realize that 13 19%
you want to take medical courses?
8. Do you have a desire to serve others in terms of 35 51%
medicine?
9. Will you accept medical scholarships and pursue a 35 51%
medical degree if they are offered to you?
10. Do you consider the future job opportunities in 32 47%
choosing a medical course?
11. Does the anticipated salary pushes you to pursue a 19 27%
medical course?
12. Does your junior high school career 12 17%
orientation/program influence your decision to pursue
a medical degree?

This table represents the 68 respondents' comprehensive responses to what factors

influence their decision to pursue medical studies. Based on this data, the questions 8 and 9
have the highest percentage. It means that in terms of medicine, grade 12 STEM students at
Lusacan National High School are heavily influenced by their desire to serve/help others.
Furthermore, there is a good chance that if medical scholarships are offered to them, they will
accept them and pursue a medical degree. These two aspects proved to be the most influential
on the participants in taking the medical course. The question number 10 received the
second-highest number of yes votes, indicating that future job opportunities are also
influencing grade 12 STEM students to pursue medical programs. These results yielded to the
same findings in the study of Zayabalaradjane, Z., et. al (2018), the researcher mentioned
both aspects; the desire to help others and good job opportunities as factors of medical
courses as a choice of higher education. The respondents' least influential aspects, on the
other hand, are questions 7 and 12. These are the COVID-19 pandemic and junior high
school career orientation; implying that only a small percentage of students consider these
aspects when deciding to pursue medical studies.
Part III. Pre-Medical/Medical Courses the Respondents Wanted to Pursue
This phase of the study attempted to determine which courses the participants wanted
to take in college that are aligned to medicine.

Figure 3.

Pre-Medical/Medical Courses
1%
1% 2%

7%

8%
33%

11%

BS in Nursing BS in Medical Technology

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery BS in Psychology
BS in Pharmacy Doctor of Medicine
BS in Anatomy

This figure displays the list of courses indicated by respondents on the survey
questionnaire. It signifies that many people are thinking about pursuing a BS in Nursing in
college, with 33% of the 68 participants expressing interest in that specific course.
Meanwhile, 11% of respondents have decided to pursue a BS in Medical Technology
program. Furthermore, 8% desired to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of
Surgery, which is required to become a neurosurgeon. Then, 7% of the respondents that
answered a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Doctor of Medicine is the second-lowest
percentage of courses that grade 12 STEM students want to pursue, with an average of 2%.
Finally, both BS in Anatomy and BS in Pharmacy received 1% of the total population of
respondents.
Part IV. Location of Universities/Schools
This segment of the research investigates whether the location of universities/schools
that offer medical courses influences participants' decision to pursue medical studies. The
survey questionnaire particularly asked “How does location of schools/universities affect you
in pursuing medical courses?”, then there are four options shown.

Figure 4.

Location of Universities/Schools

8%

19%

30%

41%

Option A Option B Option C Option D

The diagram represents that the option D has been the most favorable choice by the
respondents of this study since 41% have chosen that answer. It entails that “Despite the fact
that the medical school is a long distance away, I would still pursue it because location is not
an issue between me and my family/presents”. This follows the 31% who preferred the option
C which tells that “I don’t want my school to be so far away, hence I may take another
available course at a nearby school”. The option B got the average percent of 19% of the
respondents, this option conveys “If the school is too far away, my parents/family may not
allow me to attend”. At last, the option A had the least percentage which is 8%, it is stated
that “It can motivate me to study medical course when the school is near”. In summary, the
majority of the respondents will still pursue medical course even though the
universities/schools are far away because location is not big deal to them.
Part V. Other Aspects that Influenced to Pursue Medica Courses
This part of the research is concerned with any other aspects that influenced the
participants' decision to pursue medical courses. The researchers asked them to specify if
there were any other aspects that influenced the respondents' decision to attend medical
school that were not mentioned in the second section of the survey questionnaire.

Figure 5.

Other Aspects
1% 1%
1%

73%

Curiosity Chemistry
Wanted to experience working in medical field. N/A

This pie chart expresses that curiosity, chemistry, and a desire to work in the medical
field each have a 1% response rate. This means that 73% of respondents answered N/A
because the aspects that influenced them to pursue medical courses were already mentioned
on the second part of the survey questionnaires.
Part VI. How Helpful the Aspects
This portion of the study identifies how helpful the aspects are for respondents to
make firm decisions. Because the researchers propose the aspects that influence the
participants, they also wanted to foresee how it aids their participants in making the decision
to pursue courses.

Figure 6.

How Helpful the Aspects

2%

14%

20%

48%

Not all helpful Somewhat helpful Pretty helpful Really helpful

Based on the figure above, it evidently demonstrates that for the 48% of the
respondents, the aspects are pretty helpful. This denotes that the aspects that influenced them
to pursue medical courses serve them an assistance to build that decision. The 20% says that
the aspects are somewhat helpful, then 14% voted for really helpful, and only 2% have
chosen the not all helpful on the overall response.
 CHAPTER V:
Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
This chapter presents the summary of findings and conclusions in a concise and
precise manner, with the goal of determining the Aspects Influencing Grade 12 STEM
Students at Lusacan National High School to Pursue Medical Courses. It also imparts the
recommendations that have been developed to reflect the findings of this study.
The research was conducted at the Lusacan National High School. The study used no
sampling technique because it dealt with the total number of Grade 12 STEM students
enrolled. It made use of quantitative research as well as the descriptive method.
The percentage was used as a statistical tool.

Summary of Findings

1. What are the things does Grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan National High School
(LNHS) consider on choosing a medical course?

According to the data in part two of the survey questionnaire, the top three highest
percentages were desire to serve/help others, medical scholarships, which both got a 51% and
the 47% is future job opportunities on the medical field. Therefore, the 68 grade 12 STEM
students consider the things like mentioned above on pursuing medical courses.

2. How does the pandemic affect LNHS Grade 12 STEM students' decisions to pursue
medical courses?

The COVID 19 pandemic does not affect all respondents equally. This is due to the
fact that only 19% of them answered yes to question number 7. As a result, the pandemic
somehow did not make them realize that they want to take medical courses.

3. Do Grade 12 STEM students of LNHS have personal aspiration in medical courses?

In this research study, out of the 68 individuals who participated, a total of 36%
agreed that they have personal aspirations to pursue medical courses. This suggests that a
relatively small proportion of the Grade 12 students who study STEM subjects have a
genuine interest in pursuing a course related to medicine.

4. Does location of universities that offer medical courses influencing the Grade 12 STEM
students to study medicine?

Based on the survey results, 41% of the participants stated that the location of
universities is not a determining aspect for them when considering pursuing medical courses.
This means that for these people, whether the universities offering medical courses are
located nearby or far away, they would still be willing to enroll in them.

5. Do scholarships encourage the Grade 12 STEM students to take medical courses?

As evidenced by the results of part II of the survey questionnaire, the topic of medical
scholarships was found to be of significant interest to the respondents. Specifically, 51% of
the Grade 12 STEM students indicated that they would accept a medical scholarship if
offered and pursue a career in the medical field. Therefore, it can be inferred that scholarships
serve as a motivating aspect for these students to consider pursuing medical courses.

Conclusions
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:

1. For the first semester of the academic year 2022-2023, the majority of grade 12 senior
high school students at Lusacan National High School are females in the Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) track, accounting for the greatest
number of enrollees rather than males. The average age of grade 12 STEM students ranges on
17, 18, and 25 years old.
2. The aspects that influencing the grade 12 STEM students of Lusacan National High
School to pursue medical courses are proved to be the desire to serve/help others, medical
scholarships, and the future job opportunities among the medical field.
3. The top medical program which the grade 12 STEM students aspire to pursue is
Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
4. The STEM students in 12th grade find the aspects influencing them kind of helpful in
terms of deciding firmly to pursue medical courses.

Recommendations
This study determined the aspects influencing the grade 12 STEM students at Lusacan
National High School to pursue medical courses. Hence, the following recommendations are
hereby presented:

1. Lusacan National High School should consider having a medical career orientation so
that students are more aware of important aspects that they can use in motivating themselves
to pursue medical courses.
2. Since the aspects are from the grade 12 STEM students’ perspective, their parents or
guardians should also make a way to understand the reasons of their children behind the
decision for wanting to pursue medical courses.
3. A similar study shall be conducted to smaller group of subjects to identify if the same
findings will be established.
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