Needs Analysis: Development of an Interactive Digital Storybook in Teaching Mixtures and their Characteristics among Grade 6 Learners

Abstract

Scientific literacy is a critical skill in the 21st century, yet many Filipino learners struggle to comprehend scientific concepts due to poor reading comprehension and limited access to engaging instructional materials. This study aimed to assess the needs for developing an Interactive Digital Storybook (IDS) as a supplementary tool for teaching Mixtures and Their Characteristics among Grade 6 learners. Utilizing a descriptive quantitative design with qualitative support, the research focused on the Define Phase of the 4D Model. Six in-service science teachers from a public elementary school in the West I District of Iligan City served as key informants, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a validated Needs Assessment Questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that learners encounter significant difficulties in understanding mixtures due to the abstract and conceptual nature of the topic, limited visual and hands-on learning experiences, and persistent misconceptions. Teachers reported challenges such as lack of engaging and contextualized materials, low reading comprehension among learners, and limited access to technology. Despite minimal familiarity with digital storybooks, teachers perceived IDS as a useful, engaging, and motivating instructional tool that could enhance comprehension and accessibility in science learning. The study concludes that there is a strong need to design and develop an IDS aligned with curriculum standards to promote inclusive, interactive, and literacy-integrated science instruction, forming a foundation for the succeeding phases of the IDS development process.