Unveiling The Struggles, Dreams, Aspirations and Academic Success Among Overaged IP Learners in the Public Schools: A Phenomenological Inquiry

Authors

  • Janelyn D. Sambog Department of Education Region XII, Philippines
  • Fredgie P. Pasco, EdD Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Colleges image/svg+xml

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63671/ijeir.v2i3.135

Keywords:

Educational management, indigenous learners, academic success, educational resilience, aspirations, Philippines

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of overaged Indigenous Peoples (IP) learners in Kablon Elementary School during the school year 2025–2026. Ten Grades 3 to 6 learners were selected through purposive sampling and interviewed using semi-structured questions, with pseudonyms inspired by Blaan cultural terms to ensure confidentiality and respect for their heritage. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key patterns in their experiences.Findings revealed that overaged IP learners faced academic difficulties in reading, writing, and keeping pace with younger classmates, as well as social discomfort, poverty-related challenges, and difficulties balancing school and family responsibilities. Despite these challenges, learners demonstrated resilience through persistence in schooling, strong motivation to complete their education, and aspirations for improved livelihoods and support for their families and communities. Overall, the study highlights their determination and resilience, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive and inclusive educational support to strengthen learning outcomes among overaged Indigenous learners.

References

Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.

Department of Education. (2011). Adopting the National Indigenous Peoples (IP) education policy framework (DepEd Order No. 62, s. 2011). https://www.deped.gov.ph/2011/08/08/do-62-s-2011-adopting-the-national-indigenous-peoples-ip-education-policy-framework/⁠

Freire, P. (1970). Pedagogy of the oppressed. Continuum.

Masten, A. S. (2001). Ordinary magic: Resilience processes in development. American Psychologist, 56(3), 227–238. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.56.3.227⁠

McKinley, E. A., & Smith, L. T. (Eds.). (2019). Handbook of Indigenous education. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-3899-0⁠

Neubauer, B. E., Witkop, C. T., & Varpio, L. (2019). How phenomenology can help us learn from the experiences of others. Perspectives on Medical Education, 8, 90–97. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40037-019-0509-2⁠

Quines, L. A. (2023). The mediating effect of teamwork on the relationship between work attitude and job satisfaction of teachers. European Journal of Education Studies.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. (2015). Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to action. https://nctr.ca/records/reports/⁠

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

Downloads

Published

2026-07-06

How to Cite

Sambog, J. D., & Pasco, F. P. (2026). Unveiling The Struggles, Dreams, Aspirations and Academic Success Among Overaged IP Learners in the Public Schools: A Phenomenological Inquiry. International Journal of Educational Innovations and Research, 2(3), 107-115. https://doi.org/10.63671/ijeir.v2i3.135

Similar Articles

1-10 of 48

You may also start an advanced similarity search for this article.

Most read articles by the same author(s)