Title:
HOME LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS AND READING LEVELS OF GRADE 4 LEARNERS: BASES FOR ENHANCED HOME-BASED READING PROGRAM

Authors:
Nelly Nacin Dacles, Philippines

Abstract:
This study determined the home learning environments and reading levels of Grade 4 learners in Palauig District, Schools Division of Zambales during the School Year 2023-2024, with 197 home learning facilitators and 197 Grade 4 learners as respondents. A quantitative-descriptive method was employed, utilizing a validated questionnaire to gather data from both home learning facilitators and Grade 4 learners. The questionnaire focused on various dimensions of the home learning environment, including reading materials, activities, approaches, and assistance, as well as Filipino and English reading results. The research revealed that Grade 4 learners demonstrated a high effectiveness of the home learning environments across multiple dimensions. Home learning facilitators also observed a high effectiveness of the home learning environments among their learners in key areas related to reading. Furthermore, Grade 4 learners were classified as instructional readers based on their Filipino and English reading results. However, no significant difference was found in the perception of the home learning environments among facilitators. Nonetheless, a high positive significant correlation was identified between the home learning environments and Phil-IRI-based reading levels in both Filipino and English. The findings suggest that the home learning environments significantly influences Grade 4 learners' reading levels. As a result, an enhanced program has been developed to further improve the home learning environments and reading levels of Grade 4 learners, aiming to enhance their overall academic performance and lifelong learning outcomes.