Political Awareness and Civic Consciousness in Fostering Community Engagement of HUMSS Students
Political Awareness and Civic Consciousness in Fostering Community Engagement of HUMSS Students
ABSTRACT: Assessing students' understanding of political ideas and other key political topics may aid in the development of an
engaged citizenry. The research pursued to measure the extent to which selected) students actively participate in civic activities and
initiatives within their school, local community, or broader society. The researcher utilized total population sampling for the study
and utilized descriptive-correlational research and used a researcher-made questionnaire. The population for the study consists of
two hundred ninety-two (292) grade 12 humanities and social sciences (HUMSS) students at Crecencia Drucila Lopez Senior High
School for the academic year 2023-2024. The respondents were aware of political awareness in terms of political institutions,
political issues, political leaders, public policies, and political processes. In addition, the respondents acknowledged that they were
conscious of their civic consciousness variables. The respondents also showed that they were engaged in community engagement.
Moreover, it was revealed that there is a highly positive significant relationship between the respondent’s awareness on political
awareness, and civic consciousness and their perception on their community engagement. This means thatif one is aware of the
political matters, it contributes to their participation in the community. The result could serve as a guide to schools to come up with
different ways to boost individuals’ awareness of the affairs in the country to lead in active participation in community driven
initiative that may affect change.
KEYWORDS: Political awareness, civic consciousness, community engagement HUMSS students
I. INTRODUCTION
Politics is the mobilization of support for a position, decision, or action whereby “people act together through institutionalized
procedures to resolve differences, to conciliatedifferent interests and values, and to make public policies in the pursuit of common
purposes (Leftwich, 2014). Politics refers to the activities, procedures, and debates that enable societies to govern themselves, make
collective decisions, and address public issues. It refers to how politicians develop and influence public policies and governance
structures within established frameworks and procedures.Political awareness and engagement are vital for sustaining a democratic
society. Over the past few years, the level of political involvement among some citizens has shifted considerably. The social and
economic environment where the youth encounter may suggest the decline of their political awareness. (Valdivieso, 2014) Political
awareness is significantly imperative for a democratic society to be built on accountability, transparency, and good governance.
Every democracy, therefore, needs citizens’ participation to ensure its further development and survival. (Badaru, K. A. & Adu, E.
O., 2021).The study of political awareness is needed for any democratic political construction that respects human rights and
fundamental liberties (Althubetat and Jarrar, 2013). The good news is that the Philippine Constitution is currently included in all
school curriculum at all educational levels, as required by Art XIV, Sec. 3 (1). The curriculum covers fundamental rights and
privileges, basic government principles (including branches), and Philippine political procedures and processes.Individuals need to
keep themselves informed aboutpolitical issues, functions of political institutions, and more importantly their political rights and
their role as political participants (Kuo Tsu, 2016).Civic engagement involves a desire to improve the civic life of our communities
and develop the knowledge, skills,attitudes, and motivation needed to do so. This covers both paid and unpaid political activism,
environmental activism, and community and national service. The involvement of citizens inthe democratic governance of their
country would give thepolitical leaders a sense of responsibility and also become accountable. This enables the government to
understand itscitizens’ needs and aspirations while the active involvement of citizens in partisan politics compels the government
to fulfil its constitutional role. (Badaru, K. A. & Adu, E. O., 2021).Fostering political awareness among students is an important
component of education because it allows them to understand the goals and difficulties of their country's political landscape, while
also acknowledging that elected politicians determine governmental policies and regulations.Students must grasp how historical
II. METHODOLOGY
The study employed a descriptive-correlational method. This method of research was utilized to identify if there is a significant
relationship between the respondent’s level of political awareness and civic engagement.
According to McBurney and White (2009), descriptive correlational design is used in research studies that aim to provide static
pictures of situations as well as establish the relationship between different variables.Thus, the researcher aimed to investigate the
existenceof a significant relationship between respondents' political awareness—comprising knowledge of public policies, political
leaders, processes, institutions, and issues—their civicconsciousness involving social connections, civic skills, actions, and duties,
and their civic engagement, which encompasses forms, levels, and core values.On the other hand, the researcher utilized total
population sampling for the study. This was the sampling technique used for it helped the researcher utilize the research instrument
among the target respondents. The population for the study consists of two hundred ninety-two (292) humanities and social sciences
(HUMSS) students at Crecencia Drucila Lopez Senior High School for the academic year 2023-2024.Total population sampling is
a probability sampling method wherein the target population's elements are divided into distinct groups or strata where within each
stratum the elements are like each other with respect to select characteristics of importance to the survey. (Parsons, 2017)The study
utilized a researcher-made questionnaire to assess respondents' political awareness, civic consciousness,and civic engagement. This
tool evaluated knowledge of public policies, political leaders, processes, institutions, and issues; social connections, civic skills,
actions, and duties; and various forms, levels, and core values of civic engagement. After being reviewed and enhanced based on
feedback from a panel of examiners and social science experts, the questionnaire was validated for content. It also passed internal
consistency checksusing Cronbach's alpha before distribution, ensuring reliability in measuring the same variables consistently
(Lavrakas, 2008).Once the researcher-made instrument was approved for distribution by the adviser, the researcher obtained
authorization from the Schools Division Superintendent of San Pablo City and the school principal. Following approval, the
researcher informed the teachers about the questionnaires to be administered to the students.The questionnaire was distributed to
the respondents via Google Forms. It took about a week to gather all the required responses. The questionnaire aimed to measure
the respondents' political awareness and civic engagement. Theparticipation of the respondents was crucial to the success of the
study and the collection of data.
Table 1 showed that majority of the respondents are female which is composed of one hundred seventy-one (171) or59% of the
population, while 41% or one hundred twenty-one
(121) were males. The result suggests that most of the Humanities and Social Sciences learners are women.
Table 3 showed that in terms of their parent’s educational attainment first with their fathers are mostly Highschool graduate with a
frequency of one hundred and twenty-nine 129 or forty-four percent (44%) of the total population, in contrast the lowest frequency
is that of who are College Graduate with a frequency of twenty-six equivalent to nine-percent (9%) of the total respondents.
The data also shows that in terms of mothers’ educational attainment, the highest frequency of respondents is Highschool
graduate with a total of one hundred and thirty- four, a total of forty-six percent (46%), whereas the lowest frequency is Elementary
undergraduate for a total of 12 equivalent to four percent (4%). It depicts that the parents ofthe respondents are literate.
Children's political awareness and civic engagement are highly influenced by their parents' educational attainment. This is
supported by the notion of Campbell (2006), that children from more educated families were more likely to participate in school
political activities and classroom discussions about political and social issues, which further boosted their political engagement.
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Aware), 2.50-3.49 (Aware), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Aware), 1.00-1.49 (Not Aware)
Table 6 presents the respondents’ perception on political awareness as to political institutions. The study findings indicate a high
level of awareness among therespondents regarding the structure and function of the three branches of the government in the
Philippines. The respondents demonstrated consistent awareness across various aspects ofthe government. Specifically, they
exhibited a strong understanding of the equal authority if the three branches, the legislative branch power to enact law, and the
judicial branch role of resolving dispute. Additionally, respondent display familiarity with the executive branch including the roles
of the President and Vice President this may be due to the regular occurrence every 6 and 3 years of National and Mid-Term
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Aware), 2.50-3.49 (Aware), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Aware), 1.00-1.49 (Not Aware
The survey results indicate that the respondents have a generally high level of awareness and concern regarding various socio-
economic and political issues in the Philippines specifically, they recognize the importance of maintaining the quality of education
amidst the implementation of the k-12program, acknowledging its significance with a mean score of
3.41 and a standard deviation of 0.57. The respondents are also aware of the impact of the public utility vehicle modernization
program on the transport sector demonstrating their awareness of broader societal implications with a mean score of 3.21 anda
standard deviation of 0.62.
They also recognize the challenges surrounding issues such as journalist harassment, health crisis management, unemployment,
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Aware), 2.50-3.49 (Aware), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Aware), 1.00-1.49 (Not Aware)
Table 8 reveals that the respondents possess a strong awareness of the roles and responsibilities of political leaders in the
Philippines. Specifically, respondents understand thatpolitical leaders are responsible for implementing government policies, rules,
and regulations. They are mindful of the crucial position political leaders hold in developing public policies, making decisions, and
working toward the interest of the people and in shaping society such as policy formulation and program implementation like
infrastructure projects, livelihood programs, and health caravans.
Additionally, respondents are aware that political leaders often accommodate and support individual residents, addressing
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Aware), 2.50-3.49 (Aware), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Aware), 1.00-1.49 (Not Aware)
The findings in Table 7 indicated that the respondents recognize the concept that public policies consist of a range of rules and
regulations put in place by authorities at tiers (local, and national). These regulations may pertain to sectors, like healthcare,
education, transportation, environmentalconservation, taxation, and other areas. Its’ purpose is to influence conduct, tackle concerns,
and oversee engagements within society.
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Aware), 2.50-3.49 (Aware), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Aware), 1.00-1.49 (Not Aware)
Table 8 presents that the respondents are well- informed about public processes in the country, which highlights the structure and
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Conscious), 2.50-3.49 (Conscious), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Conscious), 1.00-1.49 (Not Conscious)
Table 9 shows that the respondents engage in respectful talks with people to exchange opinions and establish common ground on
important issues. By engaging respectfully, they can build trust and create a collaborative atmosphere where diverse perspectives
contribute to finding comprehensive solutions.
They also show awareness on the power of socialmedia as a platform for amplifying voices and fostering collective action
on important societal issues and values the importance of collective action and individual responsibility in addressing environmental
challenges and promoting sustainable lifestyles within communities. In addition, they understand and display awareness on
advocating for the support of businesses that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, thereby contributing to positive societal
and environmental outcomes through economic choices.
Overall, the results suggest that respondents are ready to engage with people on discourses, political workshops, seminars,
or discussions to obtain a better understanding of current events and social issues which is evident due to the rise of participation of
the youth and the population at large on advocacies that they believed on and activities that may be of benefit to the community.
Civic action, which involves a cycle of research, action, and reflection on personally relevant issues, has been identified as
a powerful tool for developing students' civic competence (LeCompte et al., 2020). Through civic action projects, students not only
acquire civic knowledge but also actively engage in civic actions, thereby enhancing their civic commitment and self-efficacy
(Ballard et al., 2016). This approach fosters the development of critical citizens capable of conducting research, evaluating
information, planning, and acting, and reflecting on their civic engagement (Hart, 2019).
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Conscious), 2.50-3.49 (Conscious), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Conscious), 1.00-1.49 (Not Conscious)
In general, it is revealed that most respondents are conscious of what civic duty is and it is not only about a sense of obligation but
also about contributing to the well-being of society as a whole. (Weinschenk & Dawes, 2017).
This also presents the respondents honor and value of the Philippines' rich cultural diversity that is manifested by the so-
called “Filipino pride” that is exhibited from within and outside the country by citizens that contribute on the fields of entertainment,
employment, governance, research and education etc.
It is also revealed that the respondents also join in nonprofit organizations that address specific social concerns by offering
services and advocating for positive change, maybe due to the increase of awareness on various advocacies and the innate human
desire to be involved. Demonstrating responsible citizenship through ethical behavior, respect for diversity, and a commitment to
contributing positively to the well-being of the community can promote responsible citizenship.
Encouraging young people to understand and execute their civic responsibilities, including active participation in the community
and voting, is essential for cultivating a culture of civic engagement and responsibility (Razak et al., 2023).
The respondents also understand the importance ofperforming civic duty such as participating in discourse which enhances
civic education by increasing awareness of rights, responsibilities, and the functioning of government. It empowers individuals with
knowledge to make informed decisions and actively contribute to society.
Civic education has been identified as a key factor in and political engagement. Studies have indicated that civic dutyis a strong
motivator for individuals to participate in political activities, including voting (Galais & Blais, 2014).
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Conscious), 2.50-3.49 (Conscious), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Conscious), 1.00-1.49 (Not Conscious)
Table 11 shows that the respondents are aware of the significance to educate individuals about civic rights and duties, as
well as the importance of democratic participation given that it is a regular topic of discourse in the community reasonably by
concerned influencers and leaders. Civic skills are crucial for fostering critical thinking, which in turn facilitates collective action
and engagement in civic life (Owen & Irion-Groth, 2022). Furthermore, the development of civic skills is fundamental for enhancing
civic knowledge, self- efficacy, community consciousness, and ultimately promoting civic engagement among youth (Lamb, 2023).
On the other hand, the respondents also believe that it is essential to understand the legal system as well as our civic duties
and rights due to the concerns of violations on civil liberties supposedly perpetuated by state agents considered as extra-judicial
killings and by non-state actors that was magnified and elevated to national consciousness by the media as per remarks of political
leaders and supporters alike.
In addition, they have a strong understanding that having a grasp of skills enables people and groups to make the most of
online platforms for activities, like civic engagement, communication and mobilization. By honing these abilities individuals can
actively participate in shaping conversations impacting policy choices and promoting societal transformations in their local areas
and, beyond.
Overall, the respondents' perception revealed that they are aware of the significant role civic skills play in the development of a
community. This also revealed that the respondents have the capacity to be involved in public engagement, conversation, and
cooperation. Civic skills areoften linked to qualities that contribute to being a responsible and active member of the community.
(Haduong et al., 2023)
Table 12. Respondents Perception on Social Connections
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Conscious), 2.50-3.49 (Conscious), 1.50-2.49 (Slightly Conscious), 1.00-1.49 (Not Conscious)
The study findings indicate that the respondents have an awareness regarding social connections in society.
This further presents that they believe that young people's connections to society result in the creation of several groups devoted to
social justice, human rights, andenvironmental issues as evidenced by the establishment of youth formation organizations on the
school, district, division, up to the national level with an aim of soliciting youth participation in governance and policy formulation.
By channeling their energy, creativity, and passioninto collective action, young individuals continue to shape discourse, challenge
injustices, and advocate for a more equitable and sustainable world. Social connectedness is highlighted as a significant factor in
civic development, with studies suggesting that strong social connections can lead to increased civic engagement and a sense of
belonging within communities (Oosterhoff et al., 2021).
The results also shows that the respondents engage in events that bring individuals of ages and backgrounds together to
connect and build relationships, through shared experiences like participating in community festivities attending gatherings and
supporting community organizations and nonprofits focused on addressing various social issues like poverty alleviation, education
and healthcare that helps in fostering a sense of unity and belonging among community members. Such groups often come into
existence due to the importance ofconnections
In general, the respondents put importance on establishing and maintaining social connections and its implications on
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Engaged), 2.50-3.49 (Engaged), 1.50-2.49 (Fairly Engaged), 1.00-1.49 (Not Engaged)
Table 13 presents the respondents’ community engagement as to levels. It is revealed that the respondents make sure to
be updated with the latest projects and activities of our community. This is an indication that the respondents
acknowledge that being involved in the community is essential for fostering a sense of belonging, promoting active
citizenship, and contributing to the collective well-being. Their engagement reflects an understanding that staying
informed and participating in community initiatives helps to strengthen social bonds, support local development, and
address common challenges effectively.
They also believe that to ensure an effective community project, all stakeholders must be consulted and that assisting in the planning
and creation of services, programs, and policies that have an impact on the community at large is crucial. This is an evident
indication that the respondents recognize the importance of inclusive participation and collaborative decision-making in fostering
community development and ensuring that initiatives are responsive to the needs and aspirations of all members of the community.
In addition, the respondents recognizes the effective use online platforms to mobilize support, communicate information, and engage
with a wider audience for a community engagement. According to Lovejoy, K., & Saxton,
IJSSHMR, Volume 03 Issue 07 July 2024 www.ijsshmr.com Page 990
Political Awareness and Civic Consciousness in Fostering Community Engagement of HUMSS Students
G. D. (2012), individuals can use social media to raise awareness and mobilize support for community projects by sharing
information, engaging with others, and calling for action. Individuals can play a significant role in increasing awareness and
mobilizing support for a variety of community projects by taking part in online campaigns and sharing information on social media.
Remarkably, all the statements were rated as engaged. This revealed that most respondents are well-versed in the concept of
community engagement in terms of levels which shows that the respondents believe that participation from formulation to
implementation of community activities are essential to maintaining consensus.
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Engaged), 2.50-3.49 (Engaged), 1.50-2.49 (Fairly Engaged), 1.00-1.49 (Not Engaged)
Table 14 presents the respondent's perceptions of their community engagement in terms of core values.
It demonstrates that the respondents are dedicated to upholding human rights principles and values. This exhibits their unwavering
commitment to promoting justice, equality, and dignity for all. Their active participation in human rights advocacy demonstrates
their commitment to establishing a just and inclusive society in which everyone's rights are protected and valued. This commitment
demonstrates their awarenessand proactive approach to human rights issues within theircommunity and beyond.
In addition, they also recognize that everyone should care about gender equality. This may be due to the recognition that
gender equality is fundamental to achieving social justice, fostering economic development, and enhancing the overall well-being
of society.
The results indicate that respondents prioritize values and efforts that contribute to the collective good, underscoring their
belief in community-oriented initiatives. This suggeststhat the respondents place importance on activities that benefit the broader
Legend: 3.50-4.00 (Highly Engaged), 2.50-3.49 (Engaged), 1.50-2.49 (Fairly Engaged), 1.00-1.49 (Not Engaged)
It was found that the respondents thought that to become a better member of the community, one needed toconstantly hone
their knowledge and abilities. This demonstrates their unwavering dedication to self-improvement and development to make a more
meaningful contribution to their community. Engaging in the community involves inclusive participation that respects values,
strategies, and actions for authentic partnerships among individuals sharing geographic proximity, special interests, or similar
situations(Goforth et al., 2021).
The respondents' understanding of the value of lifelong learning and skill development in their capacity ascommunity
members is demonstrated by this statement. It implies that they believe that in order to meaningfully contribute and more
successfully address the needs of the community, personal growth is essential.
Furthermore, the participants are actively involved in youth-development initiatives in their communities and schools.
Part V. TESTS OF CORRELATIONS BETWEEN THE INDEPENDENT AND DEPENDENT VARIABLES OF THE
STUDY.
Table 16 indicates that the variables evaluated have a highly significant relationship and suggests that the respondents' level of
political awareness influences the level of their community engagement across various dimensions.
The results revealed that people who are politically aware are more inclined to take part in community events. This includes
participating in public debates, going to community forums, and voting in elections. People are more likely to participate actively
in democratic processes and ensure thattheir voices are heard, and their interests are represented when they have an extensive
knowledge of political processes and issues.
In addition, this shows that engagement in community and social initiatives can be started by political awareness.Those
with an understanding of politics are better able to plan and take part in activities such as neighborhood clean-ups, and local
fundraising initiatives. These efforts effectively address local needs while fostering stronger community ties.
It may also infer that the more an individual is aware of different political matters in the country such as reports of killings,
reports of journalists being harassed on a regular basis, and other issues, it may lead to an increase to their participationin different
educational activities at the school that raises public awareness on various social issues and advocacies.
Moreover, the findings suggest that higher political awareness is generally associated with greater community engagement
particularly in terms of core values and activeparticipation in various forms and levels.
This is supported by the findings in the study of Calawa et al. (2023) in which it showed that participants engage and
participate in national and local socio-political issues present in their community. The researchers found that students start to take
part in participating when they gain awareness of the issues. However, without awareness they do not engage, because they do not
understand the significance of their participation in the issues.
Individuals are more likely to be civically engaged and participate in community activities if they are aware of the political
elements such as institutions, issues that are prevalent, the leaders that guides them, policies that are being and to be implemented
and the processes involved therein. Helping students to orient in time, understand their own and other peoples’ identities, develop
moral judgement, and give tools for political action (Karlsson 2004: 27-30, Jensen 1997, Rüsen2005) they may be able to contribute
to the overall well-being of their communities.
Further, these results support the notion that beingpolitically aware and participating in politics are essential determinants
of a society’s democratic survival. (Badaru, K. A.& Adu, E. O. 2021). A democratic system's stability andexistence rely on citizens'
informed and active participation.
Table 17 indicates that the variables evaluated have a highly significant relationship and suggests that the respondents' level of civic
consciousness affects the level of their community engagement.
The results imply that civically conscious people are more likely to participate in and engage in community activities. This
civic consciousness includes a responsibility to address social, political, and economic issues that impact their community as well
as a broad awareness of these issues. People are encouraged to engage in various forms of engagement and make positive
contributions to their community when they are aware of the opportunities and challenges that exist there. This can involve helping
out at neighborhood organizations, attending meetings, promoting policy changes, or just keeping up with current events in the
community at large.
The results also revealed that civically conscious people improve their knowledge and abilities as well as the general
harmony and well-being of their community. Active engagement contributes to the development of stronger, more resilient
communities where a variety of viewpoints are respected and heard and where group efforts result in significant advancements.
According to Althubetat & Jarrar(2013), the degree of awareness of individuals in any community affects the development of the
state.
In addition, it may be inferred that the more an individual conscious of topics such as the importance of understanding the
legal system as well as our civic duties and rights engaging in respectful talks with people to exchangeopinions and establish
common ground on important issues, it may lead to and increase on community engagement promoting their supported causes and
initiatives in the process.
Research indicates that critical consciousness, which involves an awareness of systemic inequalities and a commitment to
social justice, is essential for promoting civic development (Mirra & Garcia, 2017). This critical consciousness is linked to civic
engagement, as individualswho are aware of societal dynamics and power relationshipsare more likely to participate in activities
that aim to bring about social change (Sagiv et al., 2022).
Such consciousness may foster empowerment, which can increase political participation (Ostrander et al, 2015) fulfilling
their obligation to society. The consciousness develops and grows into active involvement in the occurrences in the polity to
influence and be influenced by the decisions thereof for the growth and development of the society.
Moreover, the finding suggests as supported by the study of Belay & Tefera, (2022) the results indicate that all the specific
indirect effects from parental civic socialization, school civic experience and social media influenced civic engagement via
perceived competence for civic action. It means the mediating effect of perceived competence for civic action in the relationship
between parental civic socialization, school civic experience and social media use and civic engagement was found to be significant.
In conclusion, it is revealed that individuals participate in their communities more actively as they grow in civic
consciousness. Their increased civic consciousness as a result of this engagement feeds a positive cycle of informed andinvolved
citizenship.
IV. CONCLUSIONS
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusion were made:
There is a significant relationship between the respondents’ political awareness and community engagement.
There is a significant relationship between the respondents’ civic consciousness and community engagement.
Therefore, the null hypotheses posited in the study is not supported.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Heartfelt appreciation to the following individuals for their significant contribution to the completion of this study. Several
people provided their experience, ideas, recommendations, time, encouragement, and love in diverse manners. The researcher would
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SYNOPSIS:
The study focuses on assessing the political understanding and civic engagement of grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences
(HUMSS) students at Crecencia Drucila Lopez Senior High School during the academic year 2023-2024. The research employed
total population sampling, involving
292 students. It utilized descriptive-correlational research methods and a researcher-made questionnaire to measure students'
awareness of political ideas, institutions, leaders, policies, and processes.
Key findings indicate that the respondents demonstrated a strong awareness of political matters and civic consciousness. They
actively engaged in community initiatives, reflecting a positive correlation between political awareness, civic consciousness, and
community engagement. This suggests that students who are more politically aware are more likely to participate actively in
community-driven initiatives, potentially influencingsocietal change.
The results provide valuable insights for educational institutions aiming to enhance students' awareness ofnational affairs, thereby
fostering increased participation in community activities and initiatives.