How Self-Regulated Learning and Technology Shape STEM Students' Math Performance in the Philippines

In today’s digital age, how students approach their learning, especially in STEM subjects, is changing fast. For senior high school STEM students in the Philippines, balancing effective learning strategies with their perspectives in technology can make a huge difference in their math performance. 

Self-regulated learning is like having someone guide you personally on your studies. It involves setting goals, tracking progress, and evaluating your performance. According to a study by Apostol (2019), students who excel in using SRL strategies tend to perform better in math. Imagine students who set clear goals for their math work and regularly check how they’re doing—these students are more likely to ace their exams. They don’t just work harder; they work smarter by organizing and assessing their learning effectively.

The study also found that motivation plays a big role in SRL. Motivated students are more likely to use these strategies well, leading to better academic outcomes. So, creating a learning environment that sparks students' interest and drive could lead to significant improvements in their performance.

In the Philippines, smartphones are almost ubiquitous. According to Statista, about 80% of Filipinos were smartphone users in early 2024. This widespread access to smartphones can be a game-changer for students, but it depends on how they seeand use these tools.

On one hand, smartphones provide access to educational apps and resources. Students can use these tools to practice math problems, track their progress, and manage their learning. On the other hand, the effectiveness of these apps depends on students’ perceptions. Apostol (2019) found that students who see technology as a helpful educational tool use it more effectively. For example, those who use educational apps and digital platforms to set goals and monitor their learning often see improvements in their math skills.

When students combine technology with effective SRL strategies, the results can be impressive. Picture using a math app that helps you practice problems and also lets you set and track learning goals. In this scenario, technology isn’t just a tool; it becomes an integral part of the learning process, making studying more interactive and organized.

To visualize this, a graph showing how students’ use of educational apps correlates with their math performance would highlight the impact of technology on academic success. Additionally, an infographic illustrating smartphone penetration in the Philippines and its link to educational app usage would demonstrate how important technology has become in students' lives.

In summary, how students manage their learning and their attitude towards technology are crucial for their math performance. By promoting effective SRL strategies and leveraging technological tools, educators can help students not only keep up but excel in their studies. As smartphones continue to play a larger role in daily life, integrating these tools into learning strategies will be key to enhancing students’ academic success.

References

• Apostol, G. (2019). Self-Regulated Learning Strategies, Academic Motivation, Perception of Technology, and Mathematics Performance of Senior High School STEM Students. Retrieved from https://www.ijarp.org/published-research-papers/jan2023/Self-regulated-Learning-Strategies-Academic-Motivation-Perception-Of-Technology-And-Mathematics-Performance-Of-The-Senior-High-School-Stem-Students.pdf.
• Statista. (2024). Smartphone User Penetration in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/625427/smartphone-user-penetration-in-philippines/.