Academic Performance and Learning Delivery Challenges Under the Learning Continuity Plan: A Quantitative Study of Senior High Schools in Surigao Del Sur, Philippines

Abstract

This study examined the academic performance of Senior High School learners and the challenges encountered by teachers and school heads in implementing learning delivery modalities under the Learning Continuity Plan (LCP) in the Schools Division of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Specifically, the analysis focused on the Mean Percentage Score (MPS) of Grade 12 learners in the National Achievement Test, the level of challenges perceived by teachers and school heads across academic strands, and the relationship between these challenges and learner achievement. A quantitative research design was employed using a researcher-made online survey questionnaire administered through Google Forms. The instrument underwent expert validation and pilot testing, yielding an excellent Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient. The study was conducted in the Schools Division of Surigao del Sur in the Caraga Region (Region XIII), which comprises 24 school districts and 81 senior high schools located in both urban and rural communities. The respondents consisted of 129 purposively selected participants, including 91 Senior High School teachers and 38 school heads from public secondary schools. Findings revealed that the overall MPS was 41.96%, indicating low mastery of essential competencies, with stronger performance in humanities-oriented subjects and weaker outcomes in Mathematics, Science, and Language and Communication. The most significant challenge was the lack of devices and technological tools for flexible learning. Correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between MPS and the perceived challenges. The study concludes that learner achievement is influenced by multiple interacting factors beyond operational difficulties alone. It is recommended that schools strengthen access to digital resources, enhance teacher capacity, and develop context-responsive Learning Continuity Plans to improve instructional quality and academic outcomes.