Abstract
This study investigated the association between student engagement, individual interest, and optimism in Physical Education among first-year Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students of AMA Computer Learning (ACLC) College of Bukidnon for the academic year 2024-2025. Utilizing a predictive correlational research design, the study aimed to investigate the degree to which individual interest and optimism predict student engagement in Physical Education. A total of 185 students were selected through stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics revealed high engagement, individual interest, and optimism among students taking up Physical Education courses. Pearson’s product-moment correlation analysis established a significant positive relationship between student engagement, individual interest, and optimism. Additionally, multiple linear regression analysis identified individual interest and optimism as significant predictors of student engagement, collectively accounting for 56% of the variance (R² = 0.560). The findings indicate that students exhibiting higher levels of individual interest are more inclined to engage in Physical Education actively. The study acclaims that educators may implement targeted pedagogical strategies that cultivate motivation, reinforce positive perceptions, and support holistic well-being to optimize student participation and learning outcomes.
