BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: ANALYZING THE FACTORS AFFECTING GRADE 12 LEARNERS’ COLLEGE COURSE PREFERENCES

This study utilized a quantitative descriptive-survey and correlational-predictive research design to systematically examine the variables dictating the college preferences of graduating senior high school learners. Conducted at Mindanao State University - Lanao National College of Arts and Trades (MSU-LNCAT) during the School Year 2025–2026, the investigation relied on a total seventy-three Grade 12 learner-respondents comprising of forty-three Humanities and Social Sciences Learner-respondents (58.90%) and thirty TVL track learner-respondents (41.10%), with a demographic concentration of fifty-six females (76.71%) and seventeen males (23.29%). Data was gathered via face-to-face classroom administration using a structured 5-point Likert scale questionnaire evaluating three predictive dimensions: Intrinsic Motivation, Familial Influence, and Peer Dynamics and Social Media Influence. Descriptive and inferential statistical treatments was used including frequency, percentage, weighted mean, standard deviation, item ranking, and the Pearson (r) Correlation Coefficient. Intrinsic Motivation emerged as the primary driver, yielding a high composite mean of 3.92 (High Influence) and a Significant Strong Positive Relationship, with course preferences, successfully rejecting the null hypothesis. Conversely, external factors had minimal impact; Familial Influence acted strictly as a secondary, consultative reference point with a neutral composite mean of 3.39 (Moderate Influence) and a weak, variable correlation, while Peer Dynamics and Social Media Influence exerted the weakest pressure, finishing with a low composite mean of 2.68 (Low Influence) and No Significant Relationship. Ultimately, these findings demonstrate that modern Grade 12 learner-respondents at MSU-LNCAT exercise high psychological autonomy, systematically prioritizing internal passion and specialized tracking competencies over parental expectations, peer circles, or digital trends.