Discipline

Education

Abstract

This study examines the factors influencing students' participation in campus journalism at St. Mary's College Inc., Quezon City, amid the absence of active writing clubs and a regular school publication, with the aim of providing a basis for revitalizing writing-related clubs such as Writer's Guild and Panitik at Panulat. It focuses on students' awareness, interest, motivation, and willingness to participate in campus journalism, as well as the barriers that hinder sustained involvement. A mixed-method design is used. Quantitative data are collected through a survey of 216 students from Grades 7 to 12, while qualitative data are gathered through structured interviews with two former campus journalism moderators and one student activity coordinator. Quantitative data are analyzed using weighted mean, and qualitative responses undergo thematic analysis. Findings showed that students recognized the value of campus journalism in developing communication skills, creativity, and self-expression. Interest in writing was high, but willingness to participate was only moderate. Key barriers included academic workload, competing extracurricular commitments, limited time, lack of confidence, and reduced visibility due to the absence of a regular school publication or the Ignacian Marian Imprint. Qualitative results confirmed that limited participation was mainly due to structural and practical constraints rather than lack of interest or ability. Faculty members expressed willingness to support writing clubs if programs were structured and institutionally supported. These findings suggested that structural limitations, particularly the absence of active writing clubs and a regular publication, reduced opportunities for student engagement. Without consistent platforms, students had fewer avenues to practice and showcase their skills, limiting sustained participation. Strengthening institutional support and structured opportunities could encourage greater involvement. Nevertheless, both students and teachers expressed readiness to support the revival of campus journalism. In conclusion, addressing structural barriers, restoring publication platforms, and providing guided writing opportunities could bridge the gap between motivation and participation. With sustained institutional support, the revival of campus journalism at St. Mary's College Inc., Quezon City, was achievable.

Keywords

campus journalism, student motivation, writing club, participation barriers