Comprehension of Graphic Materials Among Bsas Students

Abstract

This study on Comprehension of Graphic Materials was conducted from February to December 2008 to Bachelor of Science in Applied Statistics (BSAS) students at the College of Arts and Sciences, Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines.

A total of 80 BSAS students served as respondents. A 50 item test which consisted of 10 items each for tables; graphs and charts; instructions; diagrams, pictorial illustrations, maps; and notices/common signs was administered to determine their proficiency in the comprehension of graphic materials. The test on graphic materials was taken from various reading materials.

Results showed that the most difficult to comprehend by the respondents was the tables while instructions the easiest. Results showed a significant difference in the performance of the students as influenced by their year level. However, it did not show any significant difference in their performance according to gender. The overall level of performance of students in the reading comprehension of graphic materials is competent.

Four recommendations include the following: using authentic materials from magazines and newspapers that will replicate real-life situation in developing comprehension skills; utilization of any graphic materials, multiple media, art, multidisciplinary thematic units, and even games in designing classroom tasks to promote reading comprehension skills; language teachers provide interesting language lessons using newspapers, magazines or any graphic materials as input in developing reading comprehension skills; and instructional tasks or activities should be concerned with building comprehension strategies especially the use of print media like newspapers and other sources of graphic materials.