Abstract
The SPARK Program is designed to enhance the socio-political awareness of HUMSS students at Koronadal National Comprehensive High School (KNCHS-SHS) by promoting civic engagement and experiential learning. This study evaluates the program's effectiveness and acceptability through the participation of 155 students and 8 Program Moderators and Faculty members. The study employed a quantitative design to assess the impact of the SPARK Program on civic engagement among KNCHS Senior High School students in the HUMSS strand. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to gauge the program’s acceptability from both Program Moderators and Faculty members and student-participant perspectives aspects such as content, appropriateness, engagement, and social impact as well as to measure dimensions of civic engagement (behavioral participation, civic awareness, and social relationships). The sample size was estimated using Slovin’s formula for the SPARK Program student-participants, and Program Moderators and Faculty members were selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to summarize the findings and inferential techniques (correlation analysis) to determine the relationships between program acceptability and civic engagement. Findings reveal that the program is highly acceptable among administrators, master teachers, moderators, and coordinators, particularly in terms of content and appropriateness, aligning effectively with institutional goals. Students rated the program positively in engagement and social relationships, highlighting its success in linking discussions with real-world socio-political issues. The study also shows that students are highly engaged in civic activities, excelling in behavioral dimensions, civic awareness, and social relationships. Staying informed and understanding the importance of voting received the highest ratings. A significant positive correlation underscores the influence of the program’s acceptability on students’ civic involvement. Based on the findings, the study recommends expanding the program to other institutions, enhancing its activities to sustain engagement, and conducting regular assessments to ensure alignment with educational objectives.
