Improving Filipino GST Results through Peer-Assisted (Buddy-Buddy) Activity Based on Phil-IRI Pre-Assessment

This action research aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Peer Assisted (Buddy-Buddy) Activity in improving the Filipino Graded Screening Test (GST) performance of Grade 7 learners at Kaysuyo National High School, based on the results of the Phil-IRI pre-assessment. The study employed a mixed-methods action research design, involving selected Grade 7 learners identified as struggling readers in Filipino. Quantitative data were gathered through pre-test and post-test GST scores, while qualitative data were obtained through learner interviews to capture their experiences and perceptions. Data analysis included the use of descriptive statistics, particularly the mean, and inferential statistics through a t-test for dependent samples to determine significant differences between test results, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses. Findings revealed that the learners’ average pre-test performance was categorized under the Frustration Reader level; however, after the implementation of the Buddy Buddy Activity, their average post-test performance improved significantly to the Independent Reader level. Statistical results confirmed a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores, indicating that the intervention had a positive and meaningful impact on learners’ reading performance. Qualitative interviews enriched these findings, revealing core themes such as learner motivation, peer support, and enhanced confidence. A study limitation section is acknowledged, noting the small sample, short duration, and absence of a control group. The study concludes that the Peer Assisted (Buddy-Buddy) Activity is an effective strategy and recommends institutionalizing peer-assisted approaches while conducting further long-term research.

Peer-Assisted Learning, Buddy-Buddy Activity, Filipino GST, Phil IRI, Reading Intervention

1. Rosario, M. (2024). Peer-mediated reading strategies and vocabulary acquisition among secondary learners. Journal of Language and Literacy Education, 18(1), 45–59. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Fuchs, D., & Fuchs, L. S. (2023). Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies: Scaling up effective literacy interventions. Reading Research Quarterly, 58(2), 210–227. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Garcia, R., & Santos, L. (2023). Evaluating peer tutoring interventions in reading proficiency. Philippine Educational Review, 12(1), 88–102. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Garcia, K. (2022). Contextualized reading materials in improving comprehension in Filipino. Asia-Pacific Journal of Education, 10(2), 115–128. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Manalu, B.H. (2020). Students’ Perception of Digital Texts Reading: A Case Study at the English Education Department of Universitas Kristen Indonesia. Retrieved from https://files.eric.ed.gov.ph [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Nguyen, T. (2021). The impact of peer-assisted learning on reading and self-regulation skills. International Journal of Educational Development, 40(3), 89–101. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Serrano, A., & Cruz, R. (2021). Peer tutoring and reading comprehension among struggling readers. Philippine Journal of Education, 98(1), 45–58. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. UNESCO. (2022). Post-pandemic education recovery: Prioritizing foundational literacy and remediation. UNESCO Publishing. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Villanueva, M. (2023). Collaborative reading strategies and learner motivation. Journal of Literacy Studies, 15(2), 201–215. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

10. Ziegler, A. (2019). The Effect of Students Reading Digital Text Versus Print Text on Comprehension. Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 183. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• The Impact of Ownership Structure on Dividend Payout Policy of Listed Plantation Companies in Sri Lanka
• Urban Sustainability in North-East India: A Study through the lens of NER-SDG index
• Performance Assessment of Predictive Forecasting Techniques for Enhancing Hospital Supply Chain Efficiency in Healthcare Logistics
• The Fractured Self in Julian Barnes' Postmodern Fiction: Identity Crisis and Deflation in Metroland and the Sense of an Ending
• Impact of Flood on the Employment, Labour Productivity and Migration of Agricultural Labour in North Bihar