21st Century Skills and Academic Performance of Grade Six Pupils

Abstract

This study examined the level of 21st century skills and the academic performance of Grade Six pupils in selected public elementary schools in Binangonan District during the School Year 2025–2026. The research specifically aimed to determine the relationship between pupils’ 21st century skills and their academic performance, as well as to analyze the influence of selected demographic variables. The study employed a descriptive survey research design and documentary analysis. A total of 319 respondents were selected from 1,580 Grade Six pupils using Slovin’s formula and simple random sampling. The respondents were described in terms of sex, sibling position, family size, monthly income, and parents’ educational attainment and occupation. Data on 21st century skills were gathered through a researcher-made questionnaire covering information, media and technology skills, learning and innovation skills, communication skills, and life and career skills. Academic performance was determined through the analysis of pupils’ average grades for the first and second quarters.Findings revealed that most respondents were female, first or second born, and came from families with more than two children and a monthly income of at least PHP 15,000. The majority of parents were college undergraduates or graduates and were either employed or self-employed. The pupils demonstrated a high level of 21st century skills across all domains assessed. Among the demographic variables, only fathers’ educational attainment showed a significant influence on pupils’ 21st century skills. The overall academic performance of the respondents was rated as Very Satisfactory. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between the level of 21st century skills and academic performance, indicating that higher skills correspond to better academic outcomes.The study concludes that 21st century skills play a vital role in enhancing pupils’ academic performance, while fathers’ educational attainment contributes to skill development. It is recommended that schools implement programs and activities that strengthen 21st century skills to further improve learners’ academic outcomes and future readiness.