ACADEMIC CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY

SENIOR HIGH WORKING STUDENTS OF SUBIC NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

DURING SCHOOL YEAR 2022-2023

JOEDEL M. ECAL

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT TO THE SUBJECT

INQUIRY, INVESTIGATIONS AND IMMERSION.

MAY 2023
 Chapter 1
RESEARCH SETTINGS

Research Rationale

A lot of working students are often having a hard time balancing their personal life,
studies, and their time for their selves. But what is academic challenges and how will it affect the
life of a working student?

Academic Challenges refers to the struggle of a person with their study.

Working students often struggle to balance their academic responsibilities with their
work commitments. They may have limited time to study, attend classes, complete assignments,
and prepare for exams. This can lead to stress, burnout, and a decline in academic performance.
A study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that working students reported
spending less time on homework and studying compared to non-working students (Bureau of
Labor Statistics, 2019).

A survey by the American Council on Education found that working students reported
having less time for academic work, including attending class, studying, and completing
assignments (American Council on Education, 2016).

Working students may face financial challenges that can affect their ability to pay for
tuition, textbooks, and other academic expenses. They may also have to prioritize work over
school to make ends meet, which can further impact their academic performance. A study by the
Lumina Foundation found that working students were more likely to have unmet financial need
and to take out student loans compared to non-working students (Lumina Foundation, 2018).

A survey by the Institute for College Access & Success found that working students were
more likely to have high levels of student debt and to experience financial stress compared to
non-working students (Institute for College Access & Success, 2019).
 Working students may have limited social support networks, as they may not have as
much time to participate in extracurricular activities or socialize with peers. This can lead to
feelings of isolation, which can negatively impact their academic performance. A study by the
American Psychological Association found that social support was positively associated with
academic performance among working students (Balaji, 2012).

A study by the Lumina Foundation found that working students were less likely to
participate in extracurricular activities and to have social support networks compared to non-
working students (Lumina Foundation, 2018).

Working students often have difficulties on working on deadlines and struggling with the
qualities of their works. Especially those who are working on graveyard shift. A study by the
American Council on Education found that working students reported greater academic
challenges, including difficulty keeping up with coursework and lower grades, compared to non-
working students (American Council on Education, 2016).

A study by the Lumina Foundation found that working students were less likely to enroll
in rigorous programs, such as STEM fields, compared to non-working students (Lumina
Foundation, 2018).

Working students often have a lot of baggage’s. Especially with their selves and often
have mental illness. A study by the American Psychological Association found that working
students reported higher levels of stress and anxiety compared to non-working students (Balaji,
2012).

A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that working students were
more likely to experience depression and anxiety, which could negatively impact their academic
performance (Baert, et al., 2019).

Research questions

The researcher aims to identify what are the academic challenges on working students
encountered by the senior high students in Subic National High School.
Specifically, the study aims to provide answers to the following questions:

1. What are the common causes of academic challenges on senior working students?
2. How does working while studying affect their duties as a student?
3. What are the academic challenges on senior high working students of Subic National
High School?

Scope and Delimitation of the study

This study focuses on the "academic challenges Encountered by Senior High School
Working Students". the researcher aims to determine what are the academic challenges that the
senior high students are having while they are working part time. The respondents of this study
are the Senior High School students of Subic National High School. this study was conducted
during the second semester of the school year 2022- 2023.

Benefits and beneficiary of the study

Department of Education - Through this research study, learners of the Department of
Education may become transparent to them. This may also contribute to the knowledge of the
Department of Education about academic challenges Encountered By Senior High School
Working Students. Through understanding every learner of the said department on how their
learners are not good academically, they may also create more programs that will help youths
that are working to learn at the same time.

School Administrators - This study will benefit the school administrator as this study will
let them know if there is a correlation between working students and the student’s academic
performance. This will also lead them to a better understanding of their students and provide
something such as a guidance council that could make the students feel more comfortable within
their school premises.

Teachers - This study will also benefit the teachers as they will be more aware of their
students. Many teachers do not know why their students are not good academically, or why they
can't focus on their lessons. With the result of this study, they will somehow know that there are
factors that affect the student’s ability to learn, one of these factors is our main topic which is
academic challenges on working students. As this study is conducted, teachers will be more
aware of their students and will be able to understand them more.

Students - The results of the study will contribute to the knowledge of students in a way
that they will be aware on what are the challenges that may arise when they are working and
learning at the same time. As the impact of the problem can be avoidable with self-discipline and
awareness of a student about this matter. This will also serve as enlightenment for every student
who lacks knowledge about academic challenges on working students. Besides that, the results
may also be tackled by them to spread awareness to their fellow students

Future Researchers - This study will benefit the future researcher as they can use it as a
reference to gain and gather knowledge if their topic is about Academic challenges and why/if it
affects senior high working students.
 Chapter 2
RESEARCH FRAMEWORKS

Review of Related Literature.

According to a study conducted by Tinto and Russo (2014), working students face
challenges in managing their time effectively due to the demands of work and school. The study
found that working students had less time to study and complete assignments, which could lead
to lower grades and increased stress.

A study by Nguyen et al. (2016) found that working students are more likely to
experience fatigue and burnout due to the demands of work and school. The study found that
these factors can negatively impact academic performance and increase the likelihood of
dropping out.

Working students often face financial stress due to the need to balance work and school
expenses. A study by Braxton and Hirschy (2011) found that financial stress can negatively
impact academic performance and increase the likelihood of dropping out.

A study by Arulmani et al. (2019) found that working students often lack support from
family and friends, which can make it more difficult to balance work and school. The study
found that social support can positively impact academic performance and reduce the likelihood
of dropping out.

A study by Kim (2013) found that working students are less likely to engage in academic
activities such as attending class, participating in discussions, and meeting with professors
outside of class. The study found that reduced academic engagement can negatively impact
academic performance.

Working students often face role conflict, where the demands of work and school conflict
with each other. A study by Rayle and Myers (2016) found that role conflict can negatively
impact academic performance and increase the likelihood of dropping out.
 Time management is one of the most frequently cited challenges faced by working
students. Many working students find it difficult to balance their work commitments with their
academic responsibilities, which can result in decreased academic performance (Ma & Li, 2018;
Martin, 2019).

Working students are at risk of experiencing fatigue and burnout due to the demands of
balancing work and academic commitments. This can lead to decreased academic performance,
poor mental health, and increased stress levels (Reyes, 2018; McMillan & Van Dyke, 2019)

Working students may face financial challenges that impact their academic performance.
Financial constraints can lead to increased stress levels and decreased motivation to pursue
academic goals (Rudolph & Salgado, 2016; Wensveen et al., 2017).

Working students may find it challenging to meet the academic demands of their
coursework. The demands of balancing work and academic responsibilities can make it difficult
to dedicate sufficient time to studying and completing assignments (Gorgun & Arslan, 2015;
Tarrant et al., 2018).

Working students may find it challenging to balance their social lives with their academic
and work commitments, which can lead to feelings of social isolation and disconnection from
their peers (Hong et al., 2018; Kirschner & Ginsburg-Block, 2018).

Hypothesis

The academic performance of working students is negatively affected by the challenges

they face in balancing their work and academic responsibilities. Working students face unique
challenges that can potentially impact their academic performance. Balancing work hours,
commuting, and managing financial obligations can consume significant time and energy,
leaving less time for studying, attending classes, and engaging in extracurricular activities. This
juggling act may lead to increased stress levels and decreased focus and motivation towards
academic pursuits. As a result, it is hypothesized that the academic performance of working
students will be negatively affected compared to their non-working counterparts.
 It is important to note that this is just one possible research hypothesis among several
others that could be explored within the topic of academic challenges faced by working students.
The hypothesis should be tested through empirical research using appropriate methods and data
analysis techniques to draw valid conclusions. The difficulties working students encounter in
juggling their career and academic duties have a negative impact on their academic achievement.

Working students confront particular difficulties that may have an effect on their
academic performance. There may not be enough time for studying, attending classes, or
participating in extracurricular activities when juggling job hours, transportation, and financial
commitments. This juggling act might result in higher stress levels, less concentration, and low
enthusiasm for academic work. As a result, it is predicted that working students' academic
performance would suffer in comparison to that of non-working students.

It is crucial to remember that this is only one of many potential study hypotheses that
might be investigated in relation to the issue of the difficulties experienced by academics.

theoretical framework
Self-efficacy theory suggests that an individual's belief in their ability to perform a task
can impact their performance (Bandura, 1977). Working students may experience a lack of self-
efficacy in their academic pursuits due to time constraints or fatigue from work, leading to lower
academic performance.

Social support theory suggests that social support can have a positive impact on an
individual's well-being and academic performance (Cohen & Wills, 1985). Working students
may face unique challenges in obtaining social support due to their dual role, but support from
peers, family, or employers may help them manage their academic and work demands.

Stress and coping theory suggest that individuals experience stress when faced with
challenging situations, such as balancing work and academics. Coping strategies, such as time
management and seeking support, can help individuals manage stress and improve their
academic performance (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984).

Resource theory suggests that individuals have access to various resources that can
impact their performance in different areas, such as finances, time, and social support (Bourdieu,
1986). Working students may have limited access to resources, which can impact their academic
performance and overall well-being.
Definition of terms
Academic challenges
- conceptually, refers to learning difficulties or disabilities, underachievement, lack of attention
from teachers, and bullying, affect a number of students throughout their academic careers, from
elementary school to college.
- operationally, refers to a clear and measurable description of the specific difficulties or
obstacles encountered by students or researchers within an academic setting.

Academic Performance
- conceptually, refers to the overall level of achievement, competence, and success demonstrated
by an individual in their educational pursuits.
- operationally, refers to a measurable and observable description of specific indicators or
metrics used to assess a student's achievement, progress, or success in an academic setting.

Burnout
- conceptually, defined as a state of chronic physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion resulting
from prolonged exposure to stress, particularly in the context of work or caregiving
responsibilities.
- operationally, feelings of overwhelming fatigue, reduced motivation, cynicism, and a sense of
ineffectiveness or decreased accomplishment.

Financial Stress
- conceptually, defined as a psychological and emotional state characterized by a feeling of
strain, anxiety, or pressure resulting from one's financial circumstances or concerns
- Operationally, It refers to the negative impact that financial problems or constraints have on an
individual's well-being, overall quality of life, and ability to meet financial obligations or goals.

Fatigue
- conceptually, state of physical, mental, or emotional exhaustion that results from prolonged or
excessive exertion, inadequate rest or sleep, or a combination of physical and mental stressors.
- operationally, subjective feeling of weariness or depletion of energy that can affect various
aspects of a person's functioning and well-being.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

- conceptually, emphasize the integration and application of knowledge and skills from these
areas to solve real-world problems and promote innovation.
- operationally, refers to a set of academic disciplines that encompass scientific inquiry,
technological applications, engineering principles, and mathematical reasoning.

Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
Research design
the goal of this study is to explore and look at the scholarly difficulties experienced by
working understudies in various constructive settings.
The goal of the study is to find common challenges that working students face and look
into possible solutions. This study involves a qualitative approach with a phenomenology design.
The targeted group is composed of ten participants.

Sampling procedure and sample instrument

Stratified sampling will be used to ensure representation from different fields of study
and employment sectors. The sample size will be determined based on the feasibility of data
collection.

An open-ended questionnaire with ten parts was utilized to foster the inquiries associated
with the extent of the review and the gathered information were examined through topical
investigation.

Validation of the instrument.

Data collection procedure.
The researcher provides a one-on-one interview with the questions that the teacher
validated and criticized. The respondents can express his/her thoughts hen answering the
questionnaire. After the data interpretation, the interpreted response will be discussed in this
study.

Data analysis
the qualitative data from interviews or focus groups will be transcribed, coded, and
thematically analyzed to identify common themes, patterns, and insights related to academic
challenges, coping mechanisms, and support systems.

Ethical considerations
- The researchers made certain that we did not invade the participants’ privacy and
maintained personal contact with them.
Confidentiality
- All participant-collected data was acknowledged and accurately portrayed in this study.
Voluntary participation
- It is completely permissible for participants to enter and exit the study at any time.
Informed consent.
- The participants are Senior High School students from Subic National High School. The
proponent is a Grade 12, Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) student from Subic
National High School. This is a partial fulfillment for the subject Inquiry, Investigations
and immersion.