Identifying the Extent of Need in the Different Concepts under Disciplines and Ideas in Social Sciences: A Basis in Developing Mobile Based e-Learning Application

The study developed and validated an mobile based e-learning application in teaching the concepts under the subject Disciplines and Ideas in Social Sciences (DISS) for senior high school (SH). The material is inclined with the lessons based on the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs) and was patterned with the sequence of the Alternative Delivery Modality (ADM) of the Department of Education. The following specific parts are provided in every lesson: (1) looking ahead; (2) essential questions; (3) concepts unlocked; (4) concept building; and (5) mind hop.

The Research and Development (R & D) method, also known as research-based development methodology, was employed. The following steps were followed: 1) preliminary preparation; 2) detailed writing specifications; 3) designing and development of the e-learning resource; and (4) content and technical validations of the material to panel of experts; 6) revision of the material based from evaluators’ comments and suggestions; and 7) final production of the e-learning resource.

This study used two data gathering instruments: 1) a survey questionnaire to assess the need-to-develop for a mobile application for the different concepts or competencies under Disciplines and Ideas in Social Sciences; and 2) a content validation rating scale to assess the content validity of the material together with an instrument for its technical qualities.

The content and technical validity of the e-learning resource were determined using the weighted mean. Results revealed that the criteria under the content validation are all highly satisfactory. Also, based on the results, the components under the technical aspects of the material are all highly valid.

Similar research is recommended to continue the development of an e-learning resource for the subject Disciplines and Ideas in Social Sciences and other major subjects offered in the strand Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) that are ICT-based and thus goes with the present trend making it timely and relevant to the learners’ needs.