THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MATHEMATICAL GAME-BASED LEARNING ACTIVITIES: BASIS FOR CONTEXTUALIZED TEACHING STRATEGY PLAN

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Mathematical Game-Based Learning Activities (MGBLA) in enhancing engagement, understanding, and mastery in elementary mathematics education. It involved 245 learner respondents and 23 teacher respondents from 19 schools in the North District of the Schools Division of the City of Ilagan for the academic year 2024-2025. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentage distribution, and weighted mean. The study found that both learners and teachers perceived MGBLA as very effective tools for improving engagement, understanding, and mastery. Despite these positive perceptions, several challenges were identified, including difficulties in curriculum integration, technological competence, and teacher training. The findings also revealed that learners had access to mathematical manipulatives, but digital tools like cellphones, internet, and laptops were less accessible. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between the effectiveness of MGBLA and the challenges faced by teachers. Based on these findings, the study recommends integrating game-based strategies into the official curriculum, providing adequate resources and training for teachers, and using contextualized teaching strategies to enhance the effectiveness of MGBLA.