Spiritual Practices and Academic Performance of University Students: Basis for the Formulation of Values Development Instructional Package

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between the level of spiritual practices and the academic performance of university students in state universities across Samar Island. It also aimed to propose a values development instructional package for university students. Using proportionate random sampling, the study involved 346 Education students from state universities on the island. The research assessed the students’ level of spiritual practices and its correlation with their academic performance. The findings revealed that the overall average level of spiritual practices among students in the four state universities was 2.238, interpreted as \"often practiced.\" In terms of academic performance, the general weighted average (GWA) of students was 1.92, equivalent to \"very good.\" Statistical analysis showed a moderate positive relationship between the level of spiritual practices and academic performance. The computed correlation coefficient (r-value) was 0.290, indicating a linear association between the two variables. Moreover, the p-value of 0.043 was below the 0.05 level of significance, confirming that the relationship was statistically significant. These results underscore the importance of fostering spiritual growth among university students. The study recommends that administrators empower campus ministries to enhance spiritual activities within the universities, thereby fostering an environment supportive of students\' spiritual development. Faculty and staff are encouraged to actively support these initiatives and engage in values formation programs for students.

Introduction

This study explores the relationship between spirituality/religious practices and academic performance among university students, particularly in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) on Samar Island, Philippines. The research highlights the growing recognition of spirituality in education globally, emphasizing its role in students' holistic development—intellectual, emotional, moral, and spiritual.

Key Points:

1. Background and Rationale:

• Religion and education have been historically interconnected.

• Recent studies stress the importance of spirituality in students' lives for coping with stress, finding purpose, and enhancing academic success.

• Higher education institutions have traditionally overlooked spiritual development in favor of academic metrics like grades and credits.

2. Global and Local Perspectives:

• Countries like Malaysia have long integrated moral and religious education.

• In the Philippines, studies show strong student agreement on the positive impact of spirituality on focus and academic success.

• Campus Ministry programs, especially in rural institutions like those in Samar, play a vital role but are often under-supported.

3. Objectives of the Study:

• To determine the level of spiritual practices among students.

• To assess their academic performance.

• To identify a significant correlation between the two.

• To propose a Values Development Instructional Package.

4. Theoretical and Conceptual Framework:

• Based on Sharon Daloz Parks' theory, which emphasizes young adulthood as a critical phase for spiritual development, supported by community and mentoring.

• The conceptual model links spiritual practices (independent variable) with academic performance (dependent variable) and aims to develop educational tools based on findings.

5. Literature Review Insights:

• Spiritual practices (prayer, reflection, church attendance) foster qualities like peace, joy, and discipline.

• Religious involvement correlates with better GPA, school attendance, educational attainment, and work ethic.

• Religious families and peer networks contribute to academic success.

• Spirituality gives students purpose, boosting motivation and academic goals.

6. Academic Performance Factors:

• Influenced by personal, social, emotional, and environmental factors.

• Research suggests mixed findings about which variables best predict academic success, but spirituality is increasingly recognized as influential.

7. Relationship Between Spirituality and Academic Performance:

• Multiple studies affirm a positive correlation between spirituality and academic success.

• Religion provides meaning, identity, community, and internal motivation.

• Some contradictory findings exist, but the general trend shows a beneficial relationship.

8. Methodology:

• Utilized a quantitative descriptive and correlational design.

• Data gathered through survey questionnaires distributed across four SUCs in Samar Island.

• Aimed to identify the level of religious practices and corresponding academic performance of students.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn: 1) The students of the College of Education at the state universities in Samar Island often engage in spiritual practices. Specifically, the practices of \"privately praying,\" \"experiencing and valuing beauty,\" and \"working on self-realization\" were commonly performed by the students. 2) The academic performance of the university students, with an average of 1.92 (equivalent to \"very good\"). 3) There is a significant relationship between spiritual practices and academic performance. The findings show that these two variables are positively correlated and statistically significant, suggesting that spiritual practices have a measurable impact on students\' academic success. 4) To address the students\' continuous improvement, a proposed values development instructional package should be implemented. This package should cover various aspects of students\' lives, aiming to enhance their academic performance and contribute to the holistic formation of the students.

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Copyright © 2025 Alipio Antonio B. Anano Jr.. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.