Project Math BUDDIES: Improving Mathematics Performance of Grade 7 and Grade 8 through Peer Teaching

Abstract

Mathematics education has long been a topic of concern due to its abstract nature and the challenges it poses for many students. Consequently, educators and researchers have sought innovative approaches to support struggling learners and enhance their mathematical abilities. This study focused on the improvement of mathematics performance of struggling Grade 7 and Grade 8 learners of Lipa City Science Integrated National High School utilizing peer teaching dubbed as Project Math BUDDIES (Building Unions of Developed and Determined Intellectuals through Enhancement Schemes) as well as the challenges. A quasi-experimental design was utilized in this study which was participated by 22 learners under the control and experimental group. The result revealed that both Grade 7 and Grade 8 tutees in the experimental group have improved from a “low mastery” level to a “moving towards mastery” level and from an “average” level to a “moving towards mastery” level, respectively, after the implementation of Project Math BUDDIES, while the learners in the control group changed from a “low mastery” to an “average” level in Grade 7 and an “average” to a “moving towards mastery” level for Grade 8, thereby signifying a significant difference and effectiveness of the project. Lack of self-confidence in their mathematical abilities and a tendency to feel too dependent on others were often encountered by the tutees.