Lyrically Enlightened Learners: Fostering Values Formation through Character Building Songs

This study aims to foster values formation among Grade 6 learners through the use of character-building songs, offering an innovative and effective approach to character education in intermediate schools. The Participatory Action Research (PAR) was conducted at Calinog Elementary School, located in Barangay Poblacion Ilaya, Calinog, Province of Iloilo, during the Academic Year 2024-2025. The research spanned two weeks, with two sessions held once a week from October to November 2024. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing interviews and responses to explore learners’ thoughts and feelings about their experiences with the songs. The study participants included Grade 6 learners, their parents, the classroom teacher, and student-researchers. Learners were selected using purposive sampling based on specific inclusion criteria, while parents were chosen through convenience sampling. To ensure confidentiality, code names were assigned to all participants. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and observations, and were analyzed using a thematic approach. The findings revealed that the values formation of Grade 6 learners before, during, and after the intervention was marked by challenges in exhibiting values, emotional engagement, and the enlightened young minds. The study concludes the use of character-building songs among Grade 6 learners facilitated a transformative process, helping them overcome challenges and develop a foundation for lifelong ethical decision-making. It is recommended that educators and policymakers should support creative, culturally relevant approaches and provide training to enhance the effectiveness of values formation.