Academic and Social Engagements of Learners in the New Normal

Abstract

This study examined the academic and social engagement of Senior High School (SHS) learners at a private college in Negros Occidental during the school year 2020–2021, amid the challenges of the new normal. The variables considered were sex, grade level, average family monthly income, and parents’ highest educational attainment. Academic engagement was assessed across three areas: study engagement, cognitive engagement, and overall student engagement. Social engagement was measured through interactions with family members, peers, and teachers or classmates. Findings revealed that SHS learners demonstrated a high level of academic engagement across all three areas, as well as a high level of social engagement in their interactions with family, peers, and teachers. When grouped according to sex, grade level, family income, and parents’ educational attainment, no significant differences were found in either academic or social engagement. These results indicate that, despite the disruptions brought about by the new normal, SHS learners at this private college remained highly engaged academically and socially, regardless of demographic factors.