The level of research competencies of senior high school students : basis for action plan / Baby Jean L. Araja, Charis Janell O. Agnes, and Giovani A. Agualada.

Undergraduate Thesis (BSOA)-Office Administration. Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, 2025.

Includes bibliographical references.

This study assessed the research competencies of senior high school students and identified the challenges they encounter in conducting academic research. A total of eighty (80) Grade 12 students participated, with forty (40) respondents each from St. Bridget School and San Vicente National High School. Using a descriptive-correlational research design and convenience sampling, data were collected through a validated questionnaire and analyzed using weighted mean, Kruskal-Wallis H Test, and enumeration. Findings revealed that students demonstrate general research competency, particularly in identifying research problems and recognizing citations. However, lower skills were observed in synthesizing related literature, formulating hypotheses, designing methodologies, and analyzing qualitative data. Significant differences in research competencies were found across age, sex, strand/track, Practical Research 1 grades, and school type (p<0.05). Students also reported challenges in selecting topics, accessing reliable references, choosing designs, and performing data analysis. These results suggest the need for strengthened instructional strategies and structured support system to address gaps in higher-order research processes. Targeted interventions can enhance students' readiness for advanced academic requirements and future research engagements. In conclusion, while students exhibit foundational research abilities, difficulties in critical areas highlight the necessity for improved research instruction and guided practice. The study recommends the development of an Action Plan focusing on training workshops, mentoring programs enhanced access top research resources, hands-on data analysis activities, and continuous academic support. Strengthening these areas is essential to further improve the research competencies of senior high school students and prepare them for advance academic and professional research endeavors.