Abstract
This study examines the impact of contemporary literature on students' human consciousness, focusing specifically on its social and moral aspects. A quantitative research approach employing a descriptive causal research design was utilized, involving 227 eighth-grade students from a private school in Bocaue, Bulacan. The study aimed to explore the effects of contemporary literature on human consciousness through surveys and questionnaires. Based on the findings, contemporary literature was found to cover a wide range of social issues and creative styles, thereby broadening students’ knowledge. However, despite their high moral and social awareness, students struggled to conduct deeper analyses, particularly of symbolism and creative language. The students experienced a limited impact from contemporary literature, and statistical analysis indicated that its effect on their human consciousness was minimal (Adjusted r² = 0.025). The study also revealed that personal experiences, education, and family exerted a stronger influence on students’ human consciousness than contemporary literature. As a recommendation, integrating innovative and multimedia teaching methods is suggested to facilitate students’ comprehension and enhance their critical analysis of literary works. Employing interdisciplinary and thematic approaches may also help broaden students’ perspectives and awareness. Furthermore, careful selection of literary works is recommended to ensure age-appropriateness and alignment with students’ cognitive levels.
