ABSTRACT
This mixed method study determined the contextualized Literacy and Numeracy (LAN) program in terms of description and effectiveness as bases for enhancement program at the Schools District of Santa Barbara for the school year 2023-2024. It was found out that the 29 schools have their own contextualized Literacy and Numeracy (LAN) program implemented in their school. The name of the program is a combination of literacy and numeracy. The LAN program was implemented with encouraged collaboration, categorized the learners, provided differentiated instruction, conducted regular assessments, integration of literacy and numeracy, exposed to different materials and activities, used of technology, and done regularly. There is a significant difference in the pre-test and post-test in literacy performance of the learners exposed to the contextualized LAN program and also significant difference in the result between the pretest and post-test in Numeracy. There is a significant relationship between the pre-test and post-test in literacy performance and also in numeracy.
Keywords: Contextualized Literacy and Numeracy (LAN) Program, Description and Effectiveness, Enhancement Program
INTRODUCTION
Literacy and numeracy are fundamental skills that serve as the foundation for lifelong learning and academic success. However, recent assessments indicate a decline in students' reading comprehension and numeracy skills, with many struggling to read simple texts and solve basic arithmetic problems (PISA, 2018). Learning during the times of pandemic was in great loss due to long disruption of school classes.
To address with the challenges, the Department of Education (DepEd) implemented the Contextualized Literacy and Numeracy Program, aligned with DepEd Order No. 12, s. 2015, which emphasizes the development of early language, literacy, and numeracy.
This initiative was designed to enhance reading proficiency and mathematical skills by integrating contextualized teaching strategies suited to learners' needs. Schools have since developed localized literacy and numeracy programs to support student improvement and address the growing learning gaps.
The Schools District of Santa Barbara, within the DepEd Division of Iloilo, supervises numerous public elementary and secondary educational institutions serving thousands of students.
The district is committed to providing quality and inclusive education, ensuring that students receive essential literacy and numeracy skills. However, like many other areas, Santa Barbara faces educational challenges, particularly in addressing learning gaps caused by the pandemic and improving students’ reading comprehension and mathematical proficiency (Department of Education [DepEd] Region VI, 2021).
The Province of Iloilo, located in the Western Visayas region, is known for its rich cultural heritage, economic growth, and strong education system. It is home to some of the top-performing schools and universities in the country. Despite this, many learners in the province struggle with foundational skills in reading and numeracy. National and international assessments, such as PISA 2022, have emphasized the necessity of enhanced intervention programs to help learner improve their academic achievement.
This research study discovered that literacy and numeracy were inseparable in developing a life-long learners.
The screening test, and PHIL-IRI were utilized to reveal the level of literacy, while E-RUNT were utilized to expose the level of numeracy skills of the learners. Consolidated result of pre-test and post-test are compared to evidently identify the relationship of contextualized literacy and numeracy programs.
To support learners in improving their academic performance, teachers should create innovative teaching methods and strategies, and updated learning resources.
Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among schools, teachers, parents, and communities in fostering academic success. Strengthening literacy and numeracy skills remain a priority to equip students with essential competencies for future learning and real-world applications.
This study can be a great help to teachers, parents and especially to the learners of Schools District of Santa Barbara as it become a bases for enhancement program.
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