Study Habits, Learning Styles and Performance in Music, Arts, Physical Education and Health (MAPEH) among Junior High School Learners

This study examined the relationships among study habits, learning-style preferences, and academic performance in Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH) among Grade 10 learners of Solano High School, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines, during School Year 2025–2026. Anchored in Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory and Biggs' Presage–Process–Product Model, the study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design involving 300 learners selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using an expert-validated, researcher-made questionnaire and official first-quarter MAPEH grades, with descriptive statistics and Pearson's product-moment correlation used for analysis. Findings revealed high levels of study habits (M = 3.01) and learning-style preferences (M = 3.06), with concentration and interest emerging as the strongest study-habit dimension and tactile learning as the most preferred modality. Academic performance yielded a mean grade of 86.58, with most respondents attaining outstanding or very satisfactory ratings. A significant moderate positive relationship was established between study habits and learning styles (r = 0.635, p < 0.001). However, study habits (r = 0.277, p < 0.001) and learning styles (r = 0.135, p = 0.019) demonstrated statistically significant but negligible positive relationships with academic performance. Visual and auditory preferences showed significant positive correlations with academic achievement, whereas tactile and kinesthetic preferences showed no significant relationships. The study concludes that study habits and learning preferences have limited associations with MAPEH performance, highlighting the need for improved study routines, diverse instructional strategies, and further investigation of other contributing factors. The research supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and indirectly contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being). Its potential sustainability impact lies in strengthening educational practices, supporting evidence-based instructional improvement, and promoting long-term educational and institutional development.