EXPERIENTIAL SIMULATION IN ARALING PANLIPUNAN: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON GRADE 4 LEARNERS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

This study examined the effectiveness of experiential simulation strategies in enhancing the academic performance of Grade 4 learners in Araling Panlipunan, particularly on the topic Likas-Kayang Kaunlaran. Grounded in constructivist and experiential learning theories, the study implemented Project ARVEN as an instructional intervention incorporating role-playing, reenactments, collaborative learning, and reflective discussions. A quasi-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design was employed, involving fifteen (15) Grade 4 learners from Dulag Elementary School, Lingayen I District, Pangasinan, during the School Year 2024–2025. Data were collected using a validated researcher-developed 40-item test administered before and after the intervention. Descriptive statistics and a paired samples t-test were utilized to analyze the data. Results revealed that learners initially demonstrated low performance, with a mean pretest score of 13.07, predominantly classified under “Not Proficient” and “Nearly Proficient” levels. Following the intervention, learners showed substantial improvement, achieving a mean posttest score of 30.20, with all participants reaching at least a “Proficient” level. The computed t-value of 12.577 exceeded the critical value at the 0.05 level of significance, indicating a statistically significant difference between pretest and posttest scores. These findings suggest that experiential simulation strategies are effective in improving learners’ academic performance and conceptual understanding in Araling Panlipunan. The study recommends the integration of simulation-based approaches in social studies instruction and calls for further research to explore long-term impact and applicability across diverse contexts. Moreover, the intervention demonstrates potential for fostering learner engagement, critical thinking, and meaningful learning experiences, thus supporting broader educational goals within elementary social studies curriculum.