Standardized Tests: Understanding the Effectiveness of

Periodical Exams on Education in the Philippines

Presented by: Jesua Vincent V. Ferraris

Research Project | Del Carmen Integrated School

 CHAPTER 1
Introduction

Periodical exams stand as fundamental evaluative tools,

serving as pivotal checkpoints in students' academic journeys.
These regular assessments, administered at intervals throughout the
academic year, hold significant sway over student performance,
shaping not only their grades but also their overall learning
experiences and future prospects.

Many students nowadays, especially in high school, does not

take periodical exams seriously and does not seem to care about
their test scores.
Background of the study
Today, periodical exams are integral components of the curriculum in Philippine
schools, serving as benchmarks for measuring student achievement and informing
instructional practices. These exams cover a wide range of subjects and topics,
reflecting the diverse learning objectives set forth by the Department of Education
(DepEd) and other educational authorities. From elementary to tertiary levels,
students undergo a series of periodical exams each academic year, culminating in
comprehensive assessments such as mid-term and final exams.

Furthermore, periodical exams play a crucial role in motivating student learning and
fostering academic engagement. The prospect of upcoming exams incentivizes
students to engage actively in classroom activities, review course materials, and
strive for academic excellence. The feedback provided through these assessments
serves as a form of reinforcement, guiding students' learning trajectories and
instilling a sense of achievement and accomplishment.
Background of the study
However, the impact of periodical exams on education in the Philippines is not without its
challenges and criticisms. Critics argue that the emphasis on standardized testing may lead
to a narrow and overly prescriptive approach to teaching and learning, detracting from the
development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the high-stakes
nature of exam performance may exacerbate stress and anxiety among students, affecting
their overall well-being and academic performance.

In light of these complexities, there is a growing need to critically examine the role of
periodical exams in Philippine education and explore strategies for optimizing their
impact on student learning and achievement. By conducting research that seeks to
understand the multifaceted dynamics surrounding periodical exams and their
implications for education in the Philippines, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders
can work towards fostering a more responsive, equitable, and inclusive educational
system that empowers all learners to succeed and thrive.
Conceptual Framework

The researcher will

The impact of Analysis of Data finally be able to
periodical exams in through: understand the impact
our academic a. Survey of periodical exams in
performance. b. Statistical Analysis our academic
performnce.
Statement of the problem

The study sought to determine the relationship of periodical exams to

academic performance of the high school students of Del Carmen Integrated
School
To answer the above cited problem, an answer to the following will be sought:
• What is the academic performance of senior high school students in terms of
grades?

• What is the average score of the students in their 4th quarter periodical exam?

• Is there any significant relationship between periodical exam and academic

performance of the respondents?
Scope and Delimitation of the study

Out of 250 high school students of Del Carmen Integrated School,

only 30 were used as a sample in conducting the survey.

This study limits its coverage on the high school students only. Its
main purpose is to identify and assess the different factors affecting
the scores in their periodical exam. This study focuses on the
current high school students of the present school year, 2023-2024.
 CHAPTER 2
Review of Related Literature and Students

1. Historical Perspectives on Philippine Education:

• The history of education in the Philippines reveals a long-standing tradition of
periodic assessment as a means of evaluating student learning and academic
progress (Bernardo, 2018). This tradition traces back to indigenous forms of
education and has been shaped by influences from colonial powers such as
Spain and the United States (Gonzalez, 2017). Periodical exams have thus
become ingrained in Philippine educational practices, reflecting both
indigenous and foreign influences.
 CHAPTER 2
Review of Related Literature and Students

2. Role of Periodical Exams in Curriculum and Instruction:

• Periodical exams serve as key components of the Philippine educational system, guiding
curriculum development and instructional practices (Luna, 2020). These exams are
designed to measure students' mastery of subject matter and their ability to meet
curriculum standards set by the Department of Education (DepEd) (David, 2019). As such,
they play a critical role in shaping what is taught and learned in Philippine classrooms.

3. Motivation and Engagement in Student Learning:

• Research suggests that periodical exams play a crucial role in motivating student learning
and engagement in the Philippines (Sanchez, 2019). The prospect of upcoming exams
incentivizes students to participate actively in classroom activities, complete assignments,
and engage in self-directed study efforts (Garcia, 2021). Moreover, the feedback received
from these assessments serves as a form of reinforcement, guiding students' learning
trajectories and informing their academic goals (Lopez, 2020).
 CHAPTER 2
Review of Related Literature and Students

4. Challenges and Criticisms of Periodical Exams:

• Despite their importance, periodical exams in the Philippines are not without challenges and
criticisms. Some scholars argue that the emphasis on standardized testing may promote a
narrow and overly prescriptive approach to teaching and learning (Cruz, 2018). Furthermore,
the high stakes associated with exam performance may exacerbate stress, anxiety, and
performance pressure among students, potentially impacting their overall well-being and
mental health (Santos, 2021).
5. Addressing Disparities in Exam Performance:
• Disparities in exam performance among students in the Philippines may reflect underlying
inequalities in access to quality education, resources, and support systems (Aquino, 2019).
Addressing these disparities requires a holistic approach that considers the socio-economic,
cultural, and contextual factors that influence student learning outcomes (Reyes, 2020).
Initiatives aimed at providing equitable access to educational opportunities and supporting
marginalized students are crucial for promoting inclusive education in the Philippines (Torres,
2021).
 CHAPTER 2
Review of Related Literature and Students

In summary, the literature highlights the multifaceted impact

of periodical exams on education in the Philippines. While
these assessments play a critical role in guiding curriculum and
instruction and motivating student learning, they also pose
challenges related to standardized testing and disparities in
exam performance. Addressing these challenges requires
concerted efforts to promote inclusive education and support
the diverse needs of students across the Philippines.
 CHAPTER 3
Research Methodology
• Research Design:
• The research will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and
qualitative methods to comprehensively understand the impact of periodical exams on
education in the Philippines. This approach will allow for a holistic exploration of the topic,
incorporating statistical analysis of exam performance data as well as in-depth interviews or
surveys to gather insights from educators, students, and other stakeholders.
• Data Collection:
• Quantitative Data: Exam performance data from a representative sample of schools across
different regions in the Philippines will be collected. This data may include students' scores on
periodical exams, demographic information, and socio-economic background.
• Qualitative Data: In-depth interviews or surveys will be conducted with educators, students,
parents, and policymakers to gather qualitative insights into their perceptions, experiences, and
attitudes regarding periodical exams in the Philippine educational context. Questions may focus
on the role of exams in teaching and learning, the challenges they pose, and strategies for
improvement.
 CHAPTER 3
Research Methodology
• Sampling:
• Quantitative Sampling: A stratified random sampling technique will be used to select schools
from different regions, urban/rural areas, and socio-economic backgrounds to ensure
representation and generalizability of findings.
• Qualitative Sampling: Purposive sampling will be employed to select participants for interviews
or surveys, ensuring diverse perspectives from educators, students, parents, and policymakers
across various educational settings.
• Data Analysis:
• Quantitative Analysis: Exam performance data will be analyzed using statistical methods such as
descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis to examine patterns, trends, and
relationships between exam scores and demographic variables.
• Qualitative Analysis: Thematic analysis will be conducted on interview transcripts or survey
responses to identify recurring themes, patterns, and insights related to the impact of periodical
exams on education in the Philippines. Coding and categorization of data will be performed to
extract key findings and implications.
 CHAPTER 3
Research Methodology
• Ethical Considerations:
• Ethical approval will be obtained from relevant institutional review boards or ethics
committees prior to data collection.
• Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, ensuring voluntary participation,
confidentiality, and anonymity.
• Steps will be taken to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of participants' personal
information and data.
• Limitations:
• The study may face limitations related to sample size, representativeness, and
generalizability of findings.
• Bias or subjectivity in data collection and analysis may impact the validity and reliability of
results.
• External factors such as changes in educational policies or practices may influence the
study's outcomes over time.
 CHAPTER 3
Research Methodology
• Implications and Recommendations:
• The findings of the research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the
impact of periodical exams on education in the Philippines and inform
evidence-based recommendations for educational policies, practices, and
interventions aimed at promoting equitable and inclusive learning
environments.
By employing a mixed-methods research design, this study aims to
provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics surrounding
periodical exams and their implications for education in the Philippines,
ultimately contributing to the advancement of educational practices and
outcomes in the country.