EFFECTS OF TEXTESE ON THE LANGUAGE SKILLS AMONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS OF SIARGAO ISLAND INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY A.Y. 2023 – 2024

Textese is a type of informal writing that uses abbreviations, acronyms, and simplified spellings commonly found in text messages and online chats. This study aimed to determine the effects of textese on language skills among Senior High School students at Siargao Island Institute of Technology. Specifically, the research examined the influence of textese on students' spelling, grammar, reading, and writing skills, and explored whether these effects varied based on students' age, sex, academic strand, and frequency of textese use. A quantitative approach was adopted, with 100 students selected via purposive sampling. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and non-parametric statistical methods. Results indicated that age and academic strand significantly influenced spelling skills, while no significant differences were found in grammar, reading, or writing skills when grouped by sex. The frequency of textese use significantly affected all four language skills, with higher textese usage linked to greater perceived impacts. Descriptive analysis showed that textese had the most substantial influence on writing skills, followed by spelling, grammar, and reading. Correlation analysis revealed moderate positive relationships among all language skills, suggesting their interrelated nature. The study concluded that textese primarily impacted students' writing skills, highlighting the need for interventions to help students distinguish between informal textese and formal academic writing. Recommendations included targeted educational programs that reinforced language standards and policies aimed at balancing textese use with the development of traditional writing skills. Further research was encouraged to explore the cognitive and sociocultural factors underlying the effects of textese on language skills, particularly spelling and writing abilities.