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CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Time management plays a crucial role in a student's academic success,

particularly for STEM students who face a heavy workload that requires a balance

between school tasks, personal commitments, and extracurricular activities. The ability to

manage time effectively can determine whether a student successfully meets deadlines,

maintains academic performance, and minimizes stress. However, many students struggle

with procrastination, poor prioritization, and distractions, leading to incomplete or low-

quality outputs.

Several studies highlight the importance of time management in academic

performance. Britton and Tesser (1991) found that students with strong time management

skills performed better academically than those with poor time management. Similarly,

Steel (2007) emphasized that procrastination negatively affects academic success, as

students who delay tasks tend to experience increased stress and lower productivity.

Nonis and Hudson (2010) further discovered that students who followed structured study

schedules had better retention and higher task completion rates. These studies confirm

that developing effective time management strategies can significantly improve student

performance.
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In the context of STEM education, time management is particularly critical due to

the complexity and volume of coursework. STEM students often juggle theoretical

learning, laboratory activities, projects, and research assignments. Poor time management

can lead to missed deadlines, rushed work, and academic burnout. Understanding how

time management influences task completion among STEM students at RC-Al-

Khwarizmi International College Foundation Inc. (RC-AKICFI) will provide valuable

insights into improving their academic habits and performance.

This study aims to examine the relationship between time management and task

completion among STEM 11 students. It seeks to identify common challenges, effective

strategies, and the impact of time management on students' ability to meet deadlines. The

findings of this research will help students, educators, and academic institutions develop

practical approaches to enhance student productivity and efficiency.

Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework provides the foundation for this study by explaining

the principles and theories that relate to time management and task completion. Thee

study will be anchored in two main theories: Parkinson’s Law and the Goal-Setting

Theory.

Parkinson’s Law by Cyril Northcote Parkinson (1955)

Cyril Northcote Parkinson (1955) introduced Parkinson’s Law, which states that

"work expands to fill the time available for its completion." This principle suggests that

when individuals are given more time than necessary to complete a task, they will use up

all the available time, often leading to inefficiency and procrastination. Originally
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observed in bureaucratic settings, this phenomenon has since been widely studied in

business, psychology, and education, where it has been shown to affect time management

and productivity. In an academic context, this means that students who are not mindful of

their deadlines may unconsciously prolong their work, making it harder to finish tasks

efficiently.

For STEM students, Parkinson’s Law is especially relevant due to their

demanding academic workload, which includes research projects, laboratory reports, and

problem-solving exercises. Without structured deadlines, students may fall into the habit

of delaying work until the last minute, resulting in rushed outputs and increased stress.

By understanding this principle, students can take control of their schedules by setting

strict personal deadlines that encourage early task completion. This strategy not only

reduces procrastination but also allows students to allocate time more effectively across

multiple subjects, improving both productivity and academic performance (Parkinson,

1955).

This theory supports this study by explaining how students’ ability to manage

time directly affects their task completion. The law states that “work expands to fill the

time available for its completion,” meaning that without structured deadlines, students

may delay their work unnecessarily, leading to rushed and lower-quality outputs. This is

particularly relevant to STEM students, who often deal with complex assignments and

research projects that require efficient time allocation. By understanding Parkinson’s

Law, students can implement stricter self-imposed deadlines and structured study

routines to complete tasks more efficiently, reducing procrastination and enhancing

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academic performance. This theory reinforces the importance of developing effective

time management strategies to improve productivity and meet academic demands

successfully.

Goal-Setting Theory by Edwin Locke and Gary Latham (1990)

The Goal-Setting Theory, developed by Edwin Locke and Gary Latham (1990),

proposes that individuals are more likely to achieve success when they establish clear,

specific, and challenging goals. According to this theory, setting structured objectives

enhances motivation, focus, and performance by providing individuals with a clear

direction for their tasks. Research in various fields has shown that goal-setting improves

efficiency by encouraging individuals to break down larger tasks into smaller,

manageable steps. In the context of education, this means that students who set precise

academic goals—such as study schedules, deadlines, or performance targets—are more

likely to stay organized and productive.

STEM students, who often face multiple academic responsibilities, can benefit

significantly from goal-setting strategies. Without well-defined goals, students may

struggle to prioritize tasks, leading to incomplete assignments and wasted study time. By

setting short-term and long-term academic goals, students can structure their workload,

track progress, and adjust their strategies when necessary. This theory emphasizes the

importance of self-discipline and planning in achieving academic success. When applied

effectively, goal-setting helps STEM students improve time management, reduce

distractions, and enhance their ability to meet deadlines, ultimately leading to better

academic outcomes (Locke & Latham, 1990).

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This Theory supports this study by emphasizing the importance of setting clear,

specific, and challenging goals to enhance academic performance. STEM students often

face multiple demanding tasks, such as research projects, laboratory work, and problem-

solving activities, which require strong time management skills. According to Locke and

Latham (1990), individuals who establish well-defined goals are more motivated,

focused, and productive. By applying this theory, students can break down complex tasks

into manageable steps, prioritize their responsibilities, and maintain a structured study

schedule. This approach helps minimize procrastination, improve task completion rates,

and ensure that academic deadlines are met efficiently. Goal-Setting Theory highlights

the role of self-discipline and strategic planning in achieving academic success, making it

highly relevant to this study.

The theories supporting this study, Parkinson’s Law and Goal-Setting Theory,

both emphasize the importance of effective time management in academic success.

Parkinson’s Law highlights the tendency for tasks to expand when time is not managed

properly, reinforcing the need for structured schedules and self-imposed deadlines to

prevent procrastination. Meanwhile, Goal-Setting Theory explains how setting clear and

specific academic goals enhances motivation, focus, and task completion. Together, these

theories provide a strong foundation for understanding how time management influences

STEM students' ability to complete academic tasks efficiently. By integrating these

principles, students can develop better study habits, optimize productivity, and achieve

higher academic performance.

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Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the influence of time management on task

completion among STEM 11 students of RC-AKICFI. Specifically, it seeks to answer the

following questions:

1. How do the STEM 11 students of AKICFI-SHS manage their time?

1.1 Planning

1.2 Avoiding Procrastination

1.3 Prioritization of Tasks

2. What is the effect of skill in managing the time of STEM 11 of AKIC-SHS?

3. Is there a significant relationship between the skills in time management and task

completion of STEM 11 of AKIC-SHS?

Conceptual Framework

To better understand the flow of this study, the researchers developed a schematic

diagram illustrating the relationship between variables.

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This study’s conceptual framework illustrates the relationship between Time

Management Skills of STEM Students and Task Completion Performance, using a

Survey Questionnaire (Quantitative Research) as the research instrument.

Time management skills, including planning, avoiding procrastination, and prioritization,

influence students’ ability to complete tasks efficiently. The survey collects data on these

skills and their impact on performance. The Implication of the Study highlights how

effective time management enhances academic success, reduces stress, and improves

productivity.

This framework demonstrates how time management directly affects students' task

completion efficiency.

Implication of
Survey the study
Questionnaire on
Time Management  Academic
Time management success
and Task
skills of STEM  Reduced
Completion Among
students stress
STEM Students
 Enhanced
(Quantitative
Productivity
Research)

Figure 1. A schematic diagram of the conceptual framework

Scope and Delimitation

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This study focuses on STEM 11 students at RC-AKICFI. It examines their time

management habits, challenges, and the effects on task completion. The study will not

include students from other strands or grade levels. It will also not investigate factors

beyond time management, such as learning styles or external motivations. Data collection

will be conducted through surveys to gain insights into students' time management

practices.

Significance of the Study

This study will provide insights into how time management affects task

completion among STEM students. The findings may help different stakeholders in the

following ways:

Students. The study may help students understand the importance of time

management and develop strategies to improve their academic performance. By

identifying effective techniques, students can enhance their ability to complete tasks

efficiently.

Teachers. The study will provide insights into students' time management

challenges and how educators can support students in managing tasks effectively. This

can help in designing instructional strategies that encourage discipline and productivity.

Parents. The study may help parents in guiding their children toward better time

management habits. Understanding their child's struggles with task completion can allow

parents to provide necessary support and encouragement.

School Administrators. The study will provide insights that can help in

designing
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programs or interventions to improve students' academic productivity. Administrators can

implement time management workshops or curriculum modifications that promote better

learning habits.

Future Researchers. This study will serve as a reference for future studies on

time management, student productivity, and academic success. It can help researchers

explore additional factors influencing students' ability to complete tasks effectively.

Definition of Terms

To make the study easier to understand, the following terms are defined operationally and

conceptually:

Academic Performance. Academic performance refers to a student's level of

achievement in educational activities, typically measured through grades, test scores, and

assessments (Merriam-Webster, 2023). In this study, academic performance is analyzed

in relation to students’ time management skills and their ability to complete tasks

efficiently

Productivity. Productivity refers to the efficiency of completing work within a set time

while maintaining quality (Cambridge Dictionary, 2023). For this study, productivity

refers to how effectively STEM 11 students manage their schedules to accomplish

schoolwork without unnecessary delays.

Planning.
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Procrastination. Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks despite

knowing they need to be completed (American Psychological Association, 2023). In this

study, procrastination is examined as a potential barrier to effective time management

and task completion among STEM 11 students.

Punctuality. Punctuality refers to the ability to complete tasks or fulfill obligations

within the expected timeframe (Oxford Dictionary, 2023). In this study, punctuality is

examined as a key factor in time management, as it affects students’ ability to meet

deadlines, attend classes on time, and manage their academic responsibilities efficiently.

A lack of punctuality may indicate poor time management skills, leading to delayed task

completion and lower academic performance.

Self-Discipline. Self-discipline is the ability to control one’s actions, behaviors, and

emotions to achieve long-term goals (Cambridge Dictionary, 2023). This study considers

self-discipline as an important factor in students’ ability to manage their time effectively

and complete tasks efficiently.

Study Habits. Study habits refer to the consistent practices and routines that students use

to improve their learning efficiency (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, 2023). This study

looks at how different study habits influence students' ability to manage time effectively.

Task Completion. Task completion refers to the successful fulfillment of assigned duties

or responsibilities within a given timeframe (Oxford Dictionary, 2023). In this study, it

refers to how well STEM 11 students can finish their school tasks, assignments, and

projects based on their time management strategies.

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Time Management. Time management refers to the process of organizing and planning

how to divide time between specific activities to maximize efficiency and productivity

(Merriam-Webster, 2023). In this study, time management refers to the ability of STEM

11 students at RC-AKICFI to effectively allocate their time to academic tasks, balancing

schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities.

Workload. Workload refers to the amount of work assigned to a person within a certain

period (Collins English Dictionary, 2023). In this study, workload refers to the academic

responsibilities of STEM 11 students and how they manage their time to handle them

efficiently.

CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter reviews literature related to time management and its impact on

academic performance. Effective time management is essential for students, especially

those in STEM fields, where balancing coursework, projects, and deadlines is crucial.

The discussion includes studies on time management strategies, factors affecting

students’ ability to manage time, and its relationship with academic success. By

examining previous research, this chapter provides insights into how proper time

management can improve productivity and task completion.

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Related Literature

A study conducted by Alyami et al. (2021) investigated the influence of time

management behaviors on the academic performance of diagnostic radiology technology

students at King Abdul-Aziz University (KAU). The researchers employed a cross-

sectional survey design, revealing that while students acknowledged the importance of

time management, less than half actively practiced effective time management strategies.

This gap between awareness and practice suggests that merely understanding time

management principles is insufficient without proper implementation. Effective time

management requires consistent application of prioritization and scheduling techniques to

ensure academic success.

The study emphasizes the necessity for educational institutions to integrate time

management training into their curricula. By doing so, students can develop practical

skills to manage their academic responsibilities efficiently, potentially leading to

improved learning outcomes and reduced stress levels. For STEM students, who often

juggle theoretical coursework with practical applications, mastering time management is

crucial for balancing complex academic demands. The findings suggest that structured

scheduling, avoiding procrastination, and setting clear deadlines can significantly

enhance students' ability to complete assignments on time and improve overall

performance.

Paguio (2019) explored how time management skills influence academic

performance among students at LCC Silvercrest School. Utilizing a quantitative

descriptive research design with itemized rating scales, the study found a strong
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correlation between effective time management and higher academic achievement.

Students who prioritized tasks and adhered to structured schedules tended to perform

better academically. The research also highlighted the role of personal discipline in time

management success, indicating that students who consciously allocate time for studying

outperform those who do not.

The findings suggest that students who actively manage their time are better

equipped to handle academic pressures, leading to enhanced performance. For STEM

students, effective time management is particularly vital due to the rigorous nature of

their studies, which often require balancing multiple complex subjects and laboratory

work. The study recommends that schools implement structured time management

programs to help students develop habits that will contribute to long-term academic

success and professional preparedness.

A study by researchers at the College of Education, San Agustin Institute of

Technology, investigated the impact of time management on academic performance,

considering factors like procrastination and socialization. The study highlighted that

effective time management, encompassing prioritization and overcoming procrastination,

is crucial for academic success. Students who managed their time well were able to

optimize productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance, leading to improved

academic achievements.

The research underscores the importance of balancing academic responsibilities

with personal activities. For STEM students, who often face intensive coursework,

developing strategies to manage time effectively can lead to better academic outcomes

and personal well-being. By setting clear boundaries for study and relaxation, students
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can ensure that they are not overwhelmed by excessive workload demands while still

achieving high levels of performance.

A survey involving 650 Filipino high school students examined the relationship

between time management, procrastination, and academic performance in science and

mathematics. The findings revealed that female students outperformed males in these

subjects and that younger students (ages 11-14) exhibited better time management skills

compared to older ones. Effective time management was associated with higher academic

performance, highlighting its significance in educational settings. Students who

implemented structured study plans were found to retain information more effectively

and perform better in assessments.

The study suggests that early development of time management skills can lead to

sustained academic success, particularly in STEM fields. Educators are encouraged to

implement programs that foster these skills from a young age to enhance students'

academic trajectories. This is especially important in subjects like mathematics and

science, where conceptual understanding builds over time, requiring consistent study

habits and time management discipline.

Research published in the *i-manager’s Journal on School Educational

Technology* explored the relationship between time management and academic

achievement among higher secondary students. The study found a significant correlation

between effective time management and higher academic performance. Female students

demonstrated better time management skills than their male counterparts, which was

reflected in their academic achievements. The study also pointed out that students who
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set long-term academic goals performed better in school compared to those who

approached their studies in an unstructured manner.

These findings highlight the critical role of time management in academic

success. For STEM students, who often encounter demanding curricula, honing time

management skills is essential to navigate their studies effectively and achieve desired

academic outcomes. By fostering a structured approach to learning, students can

significantly enhance their retention, performance, and overall educational experience.

Related studies

A cross-sectional study conducted by Alyami et al. (2021) at King Abdul-Aziz

University (KAU) investigated the impact of time management on the academic

performance of diagnostic radiology technology students. The study aimed to determine

how time management behaviors, such as planning and prioritization, influence students'

academic outcomes. Data were collected through a survey administered to 142 students,

focusing on their time management practices and corresponding academic achievements.

The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between effective time

management and academic performance. Students who demonstrated strong planning

skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively achieved higher academic results.

Conversely, students who lacked these time management behaviors tended to have lower

academic performance. The study highlighted the critical role of time management in

enabling students to handle their curriculum efficiently and achieve their learning

objectives.
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Based on these results, the authors recommended that educational institutions

implement training programs to enhance students' time management skills. Such

programs could focus on developing students' abilities to plan and prioritize tasks

effectively, thereby improving their academic performance. The study underscores the

importance of fostering effective time management behaviors among students to support

their academic success.

A study by Jayme et al. (2023) at ECT Excellencia Global Academy Foundation,

Inc. (EEGAFI) examined the impact of time management behaviors on task completion

among STEM students. The researchers surveyed 150 randomly selected STEM 11

students using predetermined questionnaires to collect data for statistical analysis. The

study aimed to identify how time management behaviors, such as procrastination,

prioritizing, and planning, affect students' ability to complete tasks on time.

The findings revealed that procrastination significantly hinders academic

achievement, suggesting that students must work diligently to complete their projects and

other academic tasks promptly to avoid missing deadlines. The study also highlighted the

importance of prioritization and planning in managing academic responsibilities. Students

who effectively prioritized and planned their tasks were more likely to complete

assignments on time, leading to better academic performance.

Based on these results, the authors recommended that educational institutions

implement training programs to enhance students' time management skills. Such

programs could focus on developing students' abilities to plan and prioritize tasks

effectively, thereby improving their academic performance. The study underscores the
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importance of fostering effective time management behaviors among students to support

their academic success.

A study by Paguio (2019) at LCC Silvercrest School investigated how time

management skills influence students' academic performance. The researcher employed a

quantitative descriptive research design, utilizing itemized rating scales to assess various

aspects of time management among students. A random sample of 30 students

participated in the study, providing insights into their time management behaviors and

corresponding academic outcomes.

The findings indicated that students who exhibited effective time management

skills, such as setting goals and priorities, demonstrated better academic performance.

Specifically, the study highlighted that students who actively planned and organized their

study schedules were able to allocate sufficient time for academic tasks, leading to

improved grades and overall academic success. Conversely, students who lacked these

skills often struggled with meeting academic demands, resulting in lower academic

achievement.

Based on these results, the study recommended that educational institutions

implement programs to enhance students' time management abilities. Such initiatives

could include workshops or seminars focused on goal setting, prioritization, and

organizational strategies. By equipping students with these essential skills, schools can

support their academic development and overall well-being, ultimately fostering a more

productive and successful student body.

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A study conducted by Cotchoco et al. (2024) at Bestlink College of the

Philippines explored the impact of time management on the academic performance of

Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education students amidst online learning. The

researchers aimed to identify factors affecting students' time management and how these

factors influence their academic outcomes in a virtual learning environment. Data were

collected through surveys administered to the students, focusing on their time

management practices and corresponding academic achievements.

The findings revealed that several factors negatively affected students' time

management during online learning, leading to decreased academic performance. These

factors included inconsistent attendance in online classes, unclear examination directions,

excessive school workloads, and distracting environments. Students acknowledged that

attending online classes consistently and managing their time productively could help

them become better prepared and acknowledged by the school.

Based on these results, the authors recommended that educational institutions

consider reducing school workloads to one project per subject to alleviate stress.

Additionally, they suggested that students create scheduling timetables to keep track of

their responsibilities and maintain preparedness. The study underscores the importance of

effective time management in online learning environments and its significant impact on

students' academic success.

A systematic review by Atsuwe and Moses (2017) examined the relationship

between study habits, including time management, and academic performance among
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students. The review aimed to identify how effective study habits influence academic

outcomes across various educational settings.

The findings indicated that effective time management, encompassing

prioritization, overcoming procrastination, and balancing socialization, is crucial for

academic success. Students who developed better study habits, including proper time

allocation, completion of homework and assignments on time, and regular reading and

note-taking, achieved higher academic performance. The review also highlighted that

private school students demonstrated significantly better study habits and academic

achievement compared to government school students.

Based on these results, the authors emphasized the need for educational

institutions to implement programs that promote effective study habits and time

management skills among students. Such initiatives could include workshops or seminars

focused on goal setting, prioritization, and organizational strategies. By equipping

students with these essential skills, schools can support their academic development and

overall well-being, ultimately fostering a more productive and successful student body.
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CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study uses a quantitative descriptive research design to gather

measurable data on how time management affects task completion
among STEM students. This design was chosen because it allows for
statistical analysis of numerical data, helping us identify patterns in
time management habits and task completion.

A self-administered, paper-based questionnaire will be used to collect

data. This method is efficient and allows us to distribute the survey to
a larger group of students.

Purposive sampling will be employed, meaning we will select Grade 11

STEM students specifically. This group is ideal for the study because
they face academic demands that require strong time management
skills.

Respondents of the Study

The respondents of this study will consist of thirty (30) Grade 11 STEM students from

Philippine Integrated School Foundation, Inc. (PISFI), with fifteen (15) girls and fifteen

(15) boys. These students were selected because they are currently facing the academic

challenges of the STEM strand, making them ideal participants for this study, which aims

to determine how time management affects task completion.

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Instruments of the Study

The main instrument for this study will be a self-administered, paper-

based questionnaire designed to gather data on the time management
habits and task completion of the respondents. The questionnaire will
consist of two sections: the first section will collect demographic
information such as age and gender, while the second section will
focus on time management strategies and their relationship with task
completion.

To measure the respondents' views, the questionnaire will use a Likert

scale with responses ranging from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree.
This scale will help assess the degree to which students agree with
various statements about their time management and academic task
completion.

The questionnaire will be reviewed by the research adviser to ensure

content validity and clarity before distribution.

Locale of the Study

The study will be conducted at [Name of the School], located in

[Barangay/City]. This school was chosen because it offers the STEM
strand for Senior High School and has students currently experiencing
academic challenges that require strong time management.

The location is also accessible to the researchers, making it convenient

for data gathering through the distribution of the questionnaires.

Data Gathering Procedures

Before conducting the study, the researchers will ask permission from
the school principal and the research adviser to distribute the
questionnaires. Once approved, the researchers will explain the
purpose of the study to the selected Grade 11 STEM students and
assure them that their answers will remain confidential and used only
for academic purposes.
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The paper-based questionnaires will be distributed personally by the

researchers. Respondents will be given enough time to complete the
survey during a scheduled time. After they finish, the researchers will
collect the forms and proceed with checking, organizing, and analyzing
the data for the study.

Statistical Tools

To analyze the data gathered from the questionnaires, the researchers

will use descriptive statistics, specifically frequency, percentage, and
weighted mean.

 Frequency and percentage will be used to summarize the

number and proportion of responses for each item.

Formula for percentage:

Percentage =

( )
f
N
×100

Where:
f = frequency of responses
N = total number of respondents

Where:
f = frequency of responses
N = total number of respondents

 Weighted mean will be used to determine the average response

of the participants based on the Likert scale, which includes:
5 – Strongly Agree,
4 – Agree,
3 – Neutral,
2 – Disagree,
1 – Strongly Disagree
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These tools will help interpret how students manage their time and
how it affects the completion of their tasks.

( Nf ) ×100