ABSTRACT
This descriptive-qualitative study determined the importance of Special Science Elementary School (SSES) on high school research performance in Sto. Domingo - SSES, Iloilo City, during the 2024-2025 school year. A total of 16 graduates from SSES were selected for the study. A researcher-made interview schedule was used. Based on the results of the in-depth interview with the participants, it was found out that the importance of learners’ learnings from SSES program were familiarization of research activities, enhancement of research performance, and learning basic knowledge in research. It was found out that the connection of learners’ learnings from SSES program in preparation for their high school research were similar research activities, team work, similar research process, and research format. It was also found out that the challenges encountered by high school learners on their research that believed could be addressed by introducing these skills at the elementary were application of scientific method through hands-on activity, enrichment of research subject, access to science laboratory, and exposure to research format and process.
Keywords: Special Science Elementary School (SSES), research performance, enhancement program
INTRODUCTION
The Philippine Constitution emphasizes the importance of education, science, and technology for national development and human progress.
To further support and strengthen these constitutional mandates, the Department of Education launched the Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project in 2007.
One of the special features of SSES program is the additional elective subject like Research and/or Computer in all grade levels. These subjects encourage critical thinking, develop research skills, foster curiosity, enhance self-confidence, and provide early career exploration. By engaging in research, students develop transferable skills like problem-solving and communication, making them more competitive in college applications and the job market.
Early exposure to research activities fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as inquiry-based learning encourages students to actively engage with content, leading to a deeper understanding and improved critical thinking capabilities. Learners who engaged in inquiry-based learning significantly enhanced their critical thinking abilities (Wale & Bishaw, 2020).
A recent study added and highlights that project-based learning (PBL) not only enhances academic performance but also significantly fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. The research indicates that PBL encourages students to engage actively with their learning, which in turn stimulates their confidence and self-learning abilities (David, 2024). This supports the idea that engaging students in research-oriented activities, such as PBL, can lead to improved academic achievements and the development of essential skills necessary for success in various fields.
Mercer et al. (2017) highlighted that elementary students involved in research projects tend to improve their communication skills. They learn to articulate their ideas, present findings, and engage in discussions, which are crucial for their overall development.
This early exposure to research especially on collaborative work helps build social skills and the ability to work effectively with others.
More so, research in elementary school may not immediately translate to high-level research skills, but it can lay a foundational base for future success. Research in elementary school may not be standardized, and there might be variations in quality and implementation. By studying the impact, people can understand if early exposure to research fosters a stronger interest in research, improves critical thinking skills, or enhances information literacy, all of which can contribute to better high school research performance.
Studying the impact can identify potential gaps in current programs and inform the development of best practices for teaching research in elementary school. This can ensure that students are receiving a high-quality research experience that prepares them for more advanced research in high school.
The impact of elementary research can demonstrate the value of early exposure to research and provide evidence for policymakers and educators to support the integration of research into the elementary curriculum. This can lead to greater investment in research programs and resources for elementary students.
Thus, the department may strengthen the SSES program by providing schools with functional learning facilities such as laboratory apparatuses and equipment, enough computer sets for learners and capacitate teachers through seminar workshops and trainings.
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