CORRELATING ENGLISH LANGUAGE USAGE WITH ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: A STUDY OF COMMUNICATION STUDENTS IN A STATE UNIVERSITY IN THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study looked into the level of English language usage (ELU) of the 71 Mass Communication students enrolled in the second semester of SY 2013-2014 at the College of Arts and Sciences of the Isabela State University in the Philippines. It determined if the students’ English usage scores differed significantly when grouped according to year level. The study also aimed to find out the correlation between the students’ ELU scores and their academic achievement as indicated by General Weighted Average (GWA) and the correlation between ELU scores and their grades in Math, specifically in Algebra and Trigonometry and their grade in Science, specifically in Biology. A standardized 40-item ELU Test was administered to the students to determine their ELU level. The students’ GWA and grades in the three subjects were secured from the Registrar’s Office. Findings show that students have moderate level of English usage and that only the scores of the freshmen and the seniors differed significantly. There is a high significant correlation between the students’ ELU scores and their academic achievement.  Also, there is a high significant correlation between ELU score and their grade in Science, and between ELU score and their grade in Mathematics. Findings imply that competency in English determines students’ academic achievement. Any student who is good in English may be good as well in Science and Mathematics. Curriculum and syllabi planners should offer more English enhancement activities among college freshmen to improve their English competency and thus ensure academic success.