ABSTRACT
This action research aimed to address the declining student interest and motivation in Agri-Fishery Arts (AFA) among Grade 7 learners, as observed during the second quarter of the school year when instruction shifted from Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to AFA under the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) component of the MATATAG curriculum. The study sought to determine the level of students’ interest and appreciation in AFA, identify factors contributing to their low engagement, assess their perceptions of the subject’s relevance to daily life and career aspirations, and propose an intervention to enhance their motivation.
Using a descriptive-quantitative research design, data were collected from 40 student-respondents through a self-constructed questionnaire. Results revealed that while students recognize the practical and environmental relevance of AFA, they display limited enthusiasm and low perception of its career potential compared to ICT. The lack of hands-on activities, perceived irrelevance to future goals, and limited exposure to research-based and experiential learning emerged as key factors affecting engagement.
To address these gaps, the researcher implemented Project AGRI-BIDA (Agri-Fishery-related Growth in Research and Innovation – Bridging Interest through Discovery and Awareness), a research colloquium-based intervention integrating inquiry-based learning, poster presentations, and reflection writing. The project aimed to rekindle students’ curiosity and appreciation for AFA by allowing them to conduct simple research on agricultural and fishery issues and present innovative solutions. Post-intervention feedback indicated improved student engagement, deeper appreciation of AFA’s role in sustainability, and greater awareness of its relevance to community and livelihood. The study concludes that integrating research and innovation-oriented strategies can effectively enhance learners’ motivation and appreciation in Agri-Fishery Arts, aligning with the MATATAG curriculum’s vision of holistic, inquiry-driven education.
Keywords: Agri-Fishery Arts, inquiry-based learning, research colloquium, student motivation, Project AGRI-BIDA, Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE)