Enhancing Reading Comprehension in Filipino among Grade 3 Learners through the Multisensory Approach

Abstract

Reading comprehension is a critical skill for academic success, yet many young learners continue to struggle with understanding texts. The 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) showed that only 24% of Filipino 15-year-olds achieved at least Level 2 proficiency in reading, reflecting persistent challenges in literacy. This quasi-experimental research aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Multisensory Approach in improving the reading comprehension of Grade 3 learners at Cateel Central Elementary School for the academic year 2024–2025. Grounded in the VAKT (Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, and Tactile) theory, the intervention utilized multisensory activities to support learning. A total of 45 learners were selected and divided into two groups through draw-lots method and allocating them via a toss-coin method: a control group and an experimental group. Both groups were assessed using validated pre-tests and post-tests. The control group received traditional instruction, while the experimental group was taught using multisensory strategies over a three-day period. Notably, the pre-test results revealed that the experimental group already had higher initial scores compared to the control group, indicating a baseline proficiency difference between the groups. Results showed that although both groups improved, the experimental group demonstrated greater gains in performance. Post-test results revealed significantly greater improvement in the experimental group, supporting the effectiveness of the multisensory approach.” Based on these findings, the Multisensory Approach is deemed effective in enhancing reading comprehension and is recommended for broader classroom application. Future researchers may replicate the study with low-performing learners for deeper insights.