A Quasi-Experimental Study Assessing the Impact of the MATHuto Extension Program

Mathematics remains one of the most challenging subjects for Filipino learners. The World Bank (2022) reported that 91% of Filipino children aged ten struggle with basic text comprehension, while the Philippines ranked near the bottom in mathematics in PISA 2022. A 2022 needs assessment by the College of Arts and Sciences in Barangay 409 further showed that many families earned below P12,000 monthly and that children struggled in mathematics due to limited parental support, scarce learning materials, and low teacher engagement. In response, the EARIST CAS-Mathematics Department launched the MATHuto Extension Program, providing weekly interactive tutorials for Grades 1-6 pupils and out-of-school youth in Barangay 409, Sampaloc, Manila. Grounded in Vygotsky\'s Social Development Theory and Piaget\'s Constructivism, the program focuses on collaborative and experience-based learning. This paper evaluates the program\'s effectiveness from A.Y. 2022-2025, specifically examining (1) improvements in children\'s mathematical confidence and (2) changes in their attitudes toward mathematics. 

A quasi-experimental design was used to estimate the program\'s effects. Pre- test and post-test measures were administered each academic year to track progress. Results showed consistent and significant increases in both confidence and attitude, with post-test scores improving yearly. Statistical tests indicated no significant differences in perceptions across groups at the 5% level, suggesting that the program benefited learners similarly regardless of background or year of participation. 

In conclusion, the MATHuto Extension Program effectively improved students\' confidence and attitudes toward mathematics, demonstrating the value of sustained, community-based tutorial initiatives and strong partnerships between higher education institutions and local communities.