Strengthening Worthwhile Traits of Grade 12 Students Through Values-Based Learning at Taysan San Jose Integrated National High School

Abstract

Values formation plays a crucial role in shaping students’ behavior, relationships, and  decision-making, particularly among senior high school learners preparing for future academic and  career demands. This study examined the effectiveness of values-based learning in strengthening  the worthwhile traits of Grade 12 students at Taysan San Jose Integrated National High School  during the School Year 2025–2026. It aimed to determine students’ current level of academic  behavior, interpersonal relationships, and self-discipline; assess the impact of values-based  learning on leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and decision-making ability; identify how  students demonstrate these traits; examine challenges in applying values in academic and personal  contexts; and propose enhancement activities to further nurture positive traits. A descriptive– quantitative design was utilized, complemented by a quasi-experimental approach involving a  structured questionnaire. The participants consisted of 203 Grade 12 students from eleven sections.  Data were analyzed using weighted mean, composite mean, ranking, frequency and percentage.  

Findings revealed that students exhibited a very high level of worthwhile traits in academic  behavior, interpersonal relationships, and self-discipline. Values-based learning was very effective  in developing leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and decision-making ability. Students  showed a very great extent of trait development, though moderate challenges were noted in  applying values independently and handling peer influence. Enhancement activities such as  community service like Project SMILE were proposed to further strengthen students’ moral, social,  and personal growth. Based on the findings, the study proposed enhancement activities such as  community service, journaling for self-reflection and leadership workshops to sustain values  formation. Overall, the study concludes that values-based learning is an effective on strengthening  students’ worthwhile traits.Based on the findings, it was concluded that E-learning platforms such as YouTube, Canva, and Educaplay significantly enhanced the teaching and learning process, as reflected by a composite mean of 3.45 interpreted as high influence. These platforms provided dynamic visuals and meaningful hands-on experiences that improved students’ understanding and participation, while also promoting independent learning, collaboration, and active engagement. However, challenges such as unreliable internet access remained major barriers to effective participation in online learning. In light of these, it was recommended that teachers integrate e-learning platforms into daily lessons, design interactive and skill-based digital activities, and maximize these tools to address diverse learning needs, while schools ensure consistent access to digital resources and stable internet connectivity to support effective implementation.