The Meaning of Project-Based Learning among B’Laan High School Students: A Phenomenological Study

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to investigate the realites behind the Project-Based Learning in the perspective of Blaan High School students, their coping mechanisms to address the the challenges in the project-based learning, and their insights that were shared to their peers and to the academe in general. This qualitative phenomenological study was participated by 17 students from Pongoleel Integrated School in the Division of Sarangani for School Year 2015-2016. There were in-depth interview and focused group discussions conducted. The result of the interview generated themes that were transcribed, translated, coded, and described. As regards to the meaning of project-based learning, the themes that were generated were as follows: offshoot of learning, grade augmentation, added financial burden and time demand. While for the coping mechanism of students, the themes that were generated: prioritization, resourcefulness and creativity, teamwork and collaboration, parental support, industry and perseverance. As to their insights, the themes included: give it ample time, give it considerate effort, make it affordable, make it relevant and give distinct guidelines.