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THE SPENDING HABITS OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AT

WESTERN LEYTE COLLEGE: CORRELATION BETWEEN PRODUCT PRICE
AND PRODUCT QUALITY

A Proposal Presented to the Faculty

Of the Senior High School Department
Western Leyte College, Inc. of
Ormoc City, Leyte

In Partial Fulfillment
For the Requirement of the Subject
INQUIRIES, INVESTIGATIONS, & IMMERSION

CUBILLO, ANGELA
ISAAC, ED SLEIGH
TABAR, JAMES KYLE
TAN, CINDERELLA ASHLEE
YGANA, ZYRA

JANUARY 2024
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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Rationale

The spending habits of young consumers are an important area of research, as they

represent a large market segment and developing purchasing power. Senior high school

students in particular are starting to make more of their own spending decisions as they

get older and gain more financial independence. This is particularly relevant as students

bear diverse financial obligations, including the repayment of loans acquired for their

university education, a responsibility that often arises before graduation. The necessity

for cultivating sound spending habits extends to all students, irrespective of whether they

receive financial aid, emphasizing the universal importance of financial literacy and

prudent financial decision-making (Leach, Hayhoe, and Turner, 1999). Understanding

what motivates and influences their spending can provide useful insights for both

marketers and consumer welfare advocates.

According to (Al-Salamin et al., 2015), it was observed that young consumers

exhibit a heightened sensitivity to trends, branding, and social influences when

navigating their spending choices. However, there remains a gap in understanding the

intricate interplay between considerations of product price and quality in their decision-

making processes. Analyzing the correlations between these factors becomes imperative

to gain a comprehensive understanding of how high school students assess value and

negotiate trade-offs in their spending patterns.

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Furthermore, it can enable marketers to establish ethical and mutually beneficial

connections with younger demographics and empowers consumer advocates to furnish

young individuals with improved guidance on making informed and responsible

purchasing decisions. The study's specific focus on senior high school students at

Western Leyte College ensures that the findings are culturally relevant.

In summary, the purpose of this study aims to examine the purchasing behaviors of

senior high school students at Western Leyte College specifically in regards to how

product price and perceived product quality affect their choices when purchasing

products or goods. The proposed study will utilize surveys and interviews to gather

quantitative and qualitative data on students' spending habits and purchasing criteria.

The findings will have theoretical and practical applications in marketing, consumer

research, and consumer welfare regarding this influential demographic.

Statement of the Problem:

The study aims to investigate the spending habits of senior high school students at

Western Leyte College in relation to their choices between different products with

varying price points and perceived product quality. Specifically, the study answered the

following questions:

I. To what extent do senior high school students consider product quality when

choosing products?

II. Did the variables product price and product quality correlate to the spending

habits of the students?

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III. Do senior high school students tend to make price-quality checking when

purchasing products?

Hypotheses

H0: There is no significant correlation between the pricing of products and the perceived

quality regarding the spending habits of senior high school students at Western Leyte

College.

Ha: There is a significant correlation between the pricing of products and the perceived

quality regarding the spending habits of senior high school students at Western Leyte

College.

Scope and Delimitations of the Study

The overarching aim of this research endeavor is to investigate the manner in which

senior high school students, specifically those enrolled in the academic strand of ABM,

STEM, and HUMMS at Western Leyte College, evaluate the relationship between price

and quality within their consumption patterns. The determination of the sample size will

be based on considerations of population size and the availability of research resources. It

is vital to note that the research will be exclusively conducted at Western Leyte College,

potentially limiting the broader applicability of the findings to senior high school students

in alternative educational institutions or geographical regions.

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Scope and Limitations of the Study

Students require educational materials that can harness their knowledge and abilities

to foster essential life skills. In this study, we seek to gain insights into the correlation

between the purchasing behavior of students on various products, particularly concerning

the interplay of product price and product quality. The research will be conducted within

a specified timeframe, to be determined based on resource availability and the required

data collection period. The selection of these specific academic strand is based on their

significance and prevalence within the target student population. The primary aim of this

investigation is to thoroughly examine the relationship between price and the perceived

quality of products, particularly within the context of senior high school students. To

gather the requisite data, a survey will serve as the primary research instrument.

Significance of the Study

This study aims to provide new insights into the purchasing behaviors of senior high

school students. Understanding this demographics’ decision-making process and

shopping habits can inform both marketers looking to engage youth consumers, as well as

consumer advocates seeking to educate teenagers on responsible spending. The results of

this investigation are significant and beneficial specifically to the following:

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Students: This research aims to enhance students' financial awareness and responsibility

by fostering an understanding of the correlation between a product's price and its quality.

It encourages students to cultivate budgeting skills and make well-informed spending

choices.

Researchers: This research aims to offer fresh and in-depth perspectives on buying

patterns and consumer mindset, opening avenues for the creation of novel models or

frameworks that can enhance our comprehension of consumer motivations and shopping

behaviors. It also establishes a foundation for subsequent investigations into spending

habits in the context of educational institutions, providing a valuable resource for

researchers and academics to expand on current knowledge and delve into related

subjects.

Business Owners: The findings from this study can be invaluable for business

proprietors in tailoring their marketing strategies to effectively engage and attract high

school students as prospective clientele. An insight into the factors influencing their

spending decisions, including product pricing and quality, can aid in crafting compelling

marketing messages. Business owners can adjust their pricing strategies to remain

competitive while upholding a level of quality that resonates with their target market.

Educational Institutions: The administration of Western Leyte College can benefit by

gaining insights into the spending patterns of their students. This information can be used

to tailor support services, programs, or resources that align with the financial capacities

and preferences of the student body.

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Retailers and Service Providers: Businesses operating in the vicinity of Western Leyte

College can benefit by understanding the preferences and priorities of the student market.

This can guide pricing strategies and product offerings to better cater to the needs of this

specific consumer group.

Local Community: The local community surrounding Western Leyte College may

benefit from the research as it can provide insights into the economic dynamics and

consumer behavior within the area. This understanding can have implications for local

businesses, employment opportunities, and community development.

In summary, the research on the spending habits of senior high school students at

Western Leyte College has implications for various stakeholders, including students,

researchers, business owners, educational institutions, retailers, and the local community.

The findings can be applied to improve services, inform decision-making, and contribute

to the overall well-being of the studied population and its surrounding community.
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DEFINITION OF TERMS

Academic Strand (ABM, STEM, HUMMS) - Different educational tracks pursued by

senior high school students, potentially influencing spending choices based on academic
preferences and requirements.

Financial Independence - The ability of individuals, specifically senior high school

students in this research, to make financial decisions without relying on external support.

Financial Literacy - The knowledge and understanding of financial concepts, relevant to

how senior high school students navigate their spending decisions.

Financial Obligations - The responsibilities, including potential loan repayments, borne

by senior high school students, impacting their spending choices.

Population Size - The total number of individuals in the broader group of senior high
school students, providing context for the selection of the research sample.

Product Price - The cost associated with a product, a crucial factor influencing the
spending choices of senior high school students.

Product Quality - The characteristics and attributes of a product, influencing the

perceived value and spending decisions of senior high school students.

Purchasing Power - The capacity of senior high school students to buy goods or
services, influenced by factors like financial independence and available resources.

Quantitative and Qualitative Data - Numerical and non-numerical information

gathered in the research, providing a comprehensive understanding of spending habits
among senior high school students.
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Sample Size - The number of participants chosen for the research, impacting the
representativeness and reliability of findings regarding spending habits.

Senior High School Students - The specific demographic under study, reflecting
individuals in this academic stage and exploring their spending habits.

Trade-offs - The choices made by senior high school students, involving giving up one
option to gain another, a key consideration in spending decisions.
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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Spending Habits

Pillai et al. (2010) emphasize the pivotal role of young adults' spending habits in

the sustainability of their financial resources, highlighting its significance as a crucial

variable in financial judiciousness. The propensity of young adults to immediately

allocate their funds to consumable products often leads to the neglect of long-term

financial considerations, such as investments (Shaari et al., 2013). Poor spending habits,

characterized by a lack of self-discipline in continued overspending, are often ingrained

as behavioral patterns. According to the social learning theory, spending habits are

acquired through observation of parents and other influential figures (Fluellen, 2013).

Additionally, students choose to buy the product which will meet their interest relative to

product and price. The study concluded that students’ spending behavior is massively

influenced by their family background. Parents also play a critical role in shaping not

only the attitudes towards financial management but also life attitudes in general of their

children. To improve financial habits, students must take some time to create concrete

measures to help them keep track of their expenses. First, they should create their own

budget and keep ways on how to improve it. Keeping a record of expenses will help them

monitor how much money they spend on clothing, entertainment, and gadgets. They

should not forget to allocate money for savings because a good budget does have savings.

Lastly, they should keep a positive attitude (Bona, 2018). Childhood experiences,

including parental money management strategies and lessons, significantly shape

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individual financial behaviors. Parents, as primary influencers during childhood,

contribute to the development of both positive and negative spending habits in their

children (Hadzic & Poturak, 2014). Agents of socialization, such as family and peer

groups, wield substantial influence over an individual's attitude towards money (Hadzic

& Poturak, 2014).

An investigation into the spending behaviors of young individuals in Guangzhou,

Hong Kong, and Macau revealed a predominant focus on expenditures related to

entertainment, clothing, and accessories. Youths exhibited a tendency to borrow from

friends or engage in part-time work to supplement their financial resources for

discretionary spending. The findings from the survey suggest that the amount of pocket

money provided to an average youth correlates with a higher proportion allocated to

enjoyment-related expenses. Moreover, approximately 20% of youths acknowledge

"spending all they have." In instances where pocket money is depleted, these individuals

resort to borrowing from friends or undertaking part-time work to sustain their spending

habits (MSE, 2004). This underscores the intricate financial strategies employed by

young individuals in Hong Kong to maintain their desired lifestyle, shedding light on

the broader dynamics of youth spending patterns in the region.

Furthermore, in times gone by, students typically allocated their resources towards

purchasing study essentials such as books, stationeries, and clothing. However, in the

contemporary landscape, the spectrum of student needs has expanded significantly.

Present-day students find themselves necessitating not only basic educational materials

but also technological devices like laptops or desktops for assignments, mobile phones,
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and, for some, even vehicles—items that extend beyond the fundamental requirements

traditionally associated with student life. This shift in student requirements is notably

influenced by the advancements in technology, contributing to a surge in overall student

expenses.

Within the student demographic, variations in spending patterns are observed,

contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the topic. The allocation and

management of educational funds differ among student groups, with funds sourced from

scholarships, loans, or parental support. Notably, females tend to allocate more funds to

clothing, while males exhibit a propensity to spend more on entertainment and dining out,

as noted by Wang and Xiao (2009). Furthermore, research by Norvilitis et al. (2006) adds

depth to the discussion, suggesting that, while women are more likely to report having a

budget, they also tend to accumulate higher amounts of credit card debt and total debt

compared to men. This multifaceted exploration of student spending patterns, drawing

from various studies, underscores the complex interplay between gender, financial

choices, and lifestyle within the student community.

Product Quality

In the realm of consumer behavior and business competitiveness, Garvin (1984)

emphasizes the pivotal role of product quality in shaping consumer purchasing decisions

and satisfaction. The significance of product quality has evolved into a crucial

competitive factor, attracting considerable attention across diverse fields. It is widely

acknowledged that product quality constitutes a fundamental aspect of business success,

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exerting a direct influence on customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and overall

business prosperity. Consequently, comprehending the intricate factors that impact

product quality becomes imperative for organizations striving to establish effective

quality control mechanisms.

Putro, Semuel, and Karina (2014) extensively elaborate on the critical necessity for

products to possess distinctive characteristics, emphasizing the need for differentiation in

the competitive market landscape. They assert that, despite similarities among products

offered by various businesses, the distinguishing features of a product are crucial for

standing apart from competitors. In tandem with this perspective, the significance of

product quality emerges as the primary determinant in customer satisfaction and usage

experience, as articulated by Hidayat (2009). The researchers define product quality as

the degree to which a product aligns with or surpasses customer expectations and

requisites, encapsulating various dimensions such as performance, features, reliability,

durability, compliance, aesthetics, serviceability, and perceived quality. The paramount

role of product quality in influencing customer satisfaction, shaping brand reputation, and

ultimately impacting overall business prosperity is consistently underscored.

Numerous research studies emphasize the pivotal role of product quality in shaping

customer satisfaction. Zeithaml's study in 1988, for instance, revealed that customers

evaluate product quality based on their expectations and the actual performance of the

product, with satisfaction being more likely when the product meets or exceeds

expectations. Building on this, Smith and Johnson's 2018 study corroborates a positive

correlation between product quality and consumer satisfaction, noting that consumers
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perceive high-quality products as more reliable, durable, and functional, leading to

heightened satisfaction and loyalty. Furthermore, Chen et al.'s 2019 research underscores

the impact of product quality on consumers' repurchase intentions, highlighting the

necessity for consistent quality to retain customers. A focused investigation by Smith et

al. (2018) within the smartphone industry affirms that customers perceive higher quality

products as more reliable, durable, and functional, positively influencing customer

satisfaction and the intention to repurchase.

Contributing to the expanding body of research, Johnson and Brown (2019) delve

into the relationship between product quality and brand reputation. Their findings,

consistent with previous studies, emphasize that consumers are willing to pay a premium

for products perceived as higher quality, highlighting the strategic importance of

investing in product quality for increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. The

examination into companies consistently delivering high-quality products reveals a

correlation with the establishment of a robust brand reputation, offering a competitive

advantage in the market. The perceived quality of a product becomes closely associated

with the overall brand image in the eyes of customers, influencing their trust and

preference for brands prioritizing quality, as observed by Chen et al. (2020). Their

comprehensive analysis within the e-commerce industry indicates that customers

perceiving higher product quality exhibit increased brand loyalty and a greater inclination

towards repeat purchases, underscoring the critical significance of maintaining a steady

standard of product quality to cultivate customer loyalty and contribute to sustained

business success.
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Beyond its impact on customer satisfaction, product quality exerts profound effects

on various vital business outcomes. Anderson and Sullivan's (1993) study establishes a

direct correlation between product quality and customer retention, asserting that satisfied

customers, impressed with a product's quality, are more likely to engage in repeat

purchases, thereby diminishing customer churn and elevating customer lifetime value.

Brown et al.'s (2019) exploration of the impact of product quality on brand reputation

supports this, indicating that companies known for producing high-quality products are

better positioned to attract new customers and retain existing ones, highlighting the

enduring advantages of upholding consistent product quality standards.

Further research by Garcia and Martinez (2020) underscores the impact of product

quality on consumer purchase decisions, revealing that consumers are more inclined to

select products perceived as having higher quality, even if they come with a higher price

tag. This underscores the role of product quality as a significant marketing tool,

influencing consumer perceptions and purchasing behavior. Additionally, product quality

has implications for operational efficiency and cost management. Notably, it has been

found that product quality is associated with customer advocacy and positive word-of-

mouth. Hennig-Thurau, Gwinner, and Gremler's (2002) study indicates that highly

satisfied customers are more likely to recommend a product to others, significantly

impacting brand reputation and attracting new customers. To ensure high product quality,

businesses are encouraged to focus on various aspects such as design, manufacturing

processes, and quality control, with continuous improvement and innovation being

crucial to meet evolving customer expectations. Ultimately, investing in product quality

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emerges as a strategic approach for enhancing customer satisfaction, loyalty, and overall

business performance.

Product Price

According to Kotler and Armstrong (2012), price is the total of the values that

consumers exchange for the advantages of obtaining or utilizing a good or service; it is

the amount of money that is charged for a good or service. Hence, pricing has an impact

on brand positioning and image; price is therefore a crucial component (Tjiptono, 2008).

Because as Kotler and Keller (2016) stated, a consumer's decision to buy a product is

heavily influenced by their impression of the price. Price, then, plays a crucial role when

making a purchase, particularly when it comes to recurring purchases, which in turn

affects the decisions about which brand, product, and store to choose (Faith and Agwu,

2014). As stated by Kotler and Keller (2016), the price of a product can be divided into

three dimensions: fair price, fixed price, and relative price. Fair price refers to the

adjustment of a price that offers a combination of quality and appropriate services at a

reasonable price. Fixed price is a set price for all buyers. Relative price is the price set in

accordance with the quality and service provided by the seller, as per Kotler and

Armstrong (2014).

Price is undoubtedly one of the most influential factors in the perceptions of products

on the market. According to Beneke et al. (2015), price is a real clue that consumers use in

their purchasing decisions. The price variable is always present in the daily purchase and

represents the value of the economic expenditure Zeithmal (1988), refers as the sacrifice
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value) that must be given up by consumers to carry out a certain purchase transaction.

Considering that the price represents “a sacrifice”, this variable has a contrary position to

the purchase intention where generally the higher prices, the lower purchase possibilities.

Although, in some cases, researchers like Nevin e Houston (1980), Mitchell (2010), and

Kara, et al. (2009), explained that consumers do not always see price in a negative way,

which represents economic expenses, instead it is a complex variable on purchase

decision. They suggest that price could be a signal of product quality and represents

elegance and status. These price role perceptions, negative or positive, give rise to

consumer’s price image. Additionally, price image comprises a subjective and

multidimensional concept, which involves emotional factors ass ociated to products or

services. Thus, consumers’ perception about price is built through a complex process and

does not necessarily reflect the real brand or product price. Therefore, the gap between

the true price and the consumers’ perceptions about price can be large.

Research conducted by Komaladewi and Indika (2017) revealed that most

respondents consider price as an important factor influencing their purchase decisions.

This finding is consistent with the results of Djatmiko and Pradana (2015) and

Termsnguanwong (2015). Hence, Price has a positive influence on Purchase Decision.

While price is an important factor for most consumers, other factors such as brand image,

store location, service, value, and quality are also taken into consideration (Tjiptono,

2008). Many consumers use price as an indicator of quality by considering the adage

“you get what you pay for” and therefore recommend that a brand must come with a

reasonable price (Lien et al., 2015). However, the magnitude of the price effect in

different goods and services depends on the elasticity of demand, such as whether the
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goods are necessary. Additionally, the buying process is adversely impacted by the high

costs associated with renowned brands, as individuals express a desire to purchase these

brands, yet their limited income poses a barrier. It is worth noting that among the

elements of the marketing mix, only the price aspect contributes to revenue, while the

remaining components entail costs (Al-Salamin et al., 2015). Individual consumption

preferences may also change along with the fluctuations in the price levels of goods and

services.

Pricing is an essential factor in customer satisfaction since customers often check the

pricing when evaluating the product and service value. In a study conducted by Lu et al.

(2013), it was found that consumers have a price in mind before making buying

decisions. When products’ actual price is close to their price in mind, they show strong

buying intentions. Wang et al. (2014) also found that consumers’ price in mind changes

with the frequency of certain prices appearing during shopping. Once the showing price

is consistent, the consumer’s price in mind will be adjusted to the showing price.

Theoretical Framework

Adrian Furnham's theory on the

“Financial Behaviors of Young
Individuals.”

Senior High School Spending Habits:

Correlational
Students at Western Correlation between
Survey
Leyte College Product Price and Quality
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(Zhao, Yao, Liu and

Yang, 2021)

Figure 1 Theoretical Framework of the Spending Habits of Students at Western Leyte

College: Correlation between Product Price and Product Quality.
The underlying theoretical structure of the research on the spending habits of

students at Western Leyte College revolves around the association between product price

and quality. This study relies on fundamental concepts and theories to investigate how

product price and quality correlate within the spending behaviors of students at Western

Leyte College. The researchers have obtained authorization to employ Adrian Furnham's

theory on the "Financial Behaviors of Young Individuals," developed in 1999. The

questionnaire, based on this theory, encompasses various aspects including income

sources, saving habits, bank account ownership, and intentions to open new accounts,

reasons for selecting or changing banks, banking frequency, and spending patterns across

multiple categories.

This theoretical framework provides a structured foundation for the study's

development, guiding the exploration of intricate dynamics. The questionnaire functions

as a tool for collecting empirical data aligned with the conceptual framework. As the

study advances, this framework will aid in the interpretation of findings, enabling the

drawing of conclusions and contributing valuable insights to the understanding of the

correlation between product price and quality as influential factors in consumer behavior.
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CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This correlational research involves both qualitative and quantitative elements. The

objective of this research is to investigate and analyze the spending habits of senior high

school students at Western Leyte College, with a specific focus on their purchases of

various products. The primary aim is to explore the correlation between the price of these

products and the perceived quality among senior high school students. Through a detailed

examination of these spending habits, the study aims to identify patterns, preferences, and

factors influencing the financial decisions of students when acquiring goods.

The research seeks to quantify the relationship between product price and perceived

quality, shedding light on whether there is a statistically significant correlation between

these two variables. By understanding the dynamics of this correlation, the study aims to

contribute valuable insights into the economic behaviors of senior high school students,

potentially informing educators, administrators, and suppliers about the considerations

that drive purchasing decisions. The findings from this research endeavor to provide

practical implications and recommendations for optimizing the affordability and quality
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of products available to senior high school students at Western Leyte College,

contributing to more informed decision-making in the context of student spending.

Research Respondents

In this study, the researchers focused on the students of Senior High School in

Western Leyte College, specifically those in the 11th and 12th grades under the strands of

ABM, STEM, and HUMMS. To select the participants, the researchers employed a

combination of stratified and simple random sampling techniques.

Stratified random sampling involves dividing the population into smaller subgroups

or strata based on shared attributes or characteristics. In this study, the strata were formed

based on the different strands of the Senior High School students. This technique allows

for a more representative sample as it ensures that each stratum is adequately represented

in the sample. By using stratified random sampling, the researchers can study the specific

characteristics and experiences of students in each strand.

On the other hand, simple random sampling is a basic sampling technique where

subjects are selected entirely by chance from a larger group or population. In this study,

the researchers conducted simple random sampling within each stratum. This means that

within each strand (ABM, STEM, and HUMMS), six students; 3 girls and 3 boys were

randomly selected to participate in the study. In total there are 156 participants, with six

individuals selected from each of the 26 sections. Simple random sampling ensures that
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each individual in the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample,

making the sample more representative of the entire population.

By combining stratified and simple random sampling techniques, the researchers

aimed to select a sample of Senior High School students that represents the different

strands in Western Leyte College. This approach allows for a more comprehensive

understanding of the research topic by considering the perspectives and experiences of

students from there spending habits on various products and the correlation between

product price and product quality.

Ethical Considerations

In the process of devising an assessment plan, it is crucial to incorporate moral

considerations. The research adhered to six ethical principles. During evaluation, the

following ethical factors were carefully considered:

1. Informed Consent: Participants provided consent with full awareness.

2. Voluntary Participation: Individuals voluntarily engaged in the study.

3. Avoidance of Harm: Measures were taken to prevent harm to any participant.

4. Confidentiality: Information obtained was kept private.

5. Anonymity: Participants’ identities remained undisclosed.

6. Focused Evaluation: Pertinent elements were rigorously evaluated.

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These ethical guidelines ensure the integrity of the research and safeguard the rights of

the participants.

Research Environment

The research will be conducted at Western Leyte College, an esteemed educational

institution located in Ormoc City, Philippines. Western Leyte College has a long-standing

reputation for providing quality education to the youth of Ormoc City and the entire

region. The school has a track record of nurturing and molding students, equipping them

with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields and compete

globally. Secondly, the choice of Western Leyte College as the research locale is based

on its relevance to the study's objective of examining the spending habits of Senior High

School students on various products and the correlation between product price and

product quality. The school’s commitment to quality education and its reputation makes

it an ideal setting for this research.

Research Instrument

The study utilized questionnaires as a data collection method to investigate the

spending habits of high school students at Western Leyte College and explore the

correlation between product price and product quality. The questionnaire design aligned

with the study's objectives, incorporating elements from two distinct sources to ensure

precise and relevant data collection. The first part of the questionnaire, encompassing
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questions about the respondent's personal information, it is derived from Atie Nadome’s

“Spending Habits of University Students” and was developed in 2014. Nadome’s

questionnaire covers various aspects such as income sources, saving habits, budgeting

practices, spending habits, and the effect of price and brand. The first section employs a

Likert Scale Method, which consists of five tables that answers questions that rated on a 4

to 7-point scale. The questionnaire's second part, consisting of questions 1 to 9, evaluates

effects of price and brand, utilizing a Binary Scale Method.

To ensure compliance and permission for using the test content for non-commercial

research and educational purposes, the researchers obtained explicit permissions from the

original source, Atie Nadome. The controlled distribution of the test content is restricted

to research participants or enrolled educational entities, and any other forms of

reproduction or distribution necessitate written consent from the authors and publisher.

Data Gathering Procedure

The process of gathering data was systematically organized into four distinct stages:

(1) Selection of Respondents, (2) Distribution of Consent and Questionnaires, (3) Data

Collection, and (4) Analysis and Interpretation of Responses.

To ensure the precision of the study's findings, a combination of stratified sampling

and simple random sampling methods was employed. The focus was specifically on

grade 11 and 12 students at Western Leyte College, with each section divided into

gender-based groups (male and female). Three respondents were randomly selected from
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each group, resulting in a total of six participants per section. The study included a total

of 156 participants, with six individuals selected from each of the 26 sections.

Ethical considerations played a crucial role in the research process. Informed consent

forms were diligently provided to participants, indicating their voluntary participation in

the survey. The researchers utilized a questionnaire that helped identify factors and

accurate results from these gathered questions. The questionnaire is titled "Spending

Habits Among University Students" by Atie Nadome, which received approval from the

researcher. The research is structured into three distinct sections, with the initial segment

employing the Nominal Scale Method to collect personal information from the

participants. The survey commenced with the utilization of the Likert Scale Method and

concluded with the application of the Binary Scale Method. Additionally, the

questionnaire was designed to encompass a comprehensive range of inquiries, aiming to

capture diverse perspectives and enhance the depth of the research findings.

To maintain objectivity, the researchers sought to minimize direct interaction

between themselves and the respondents during the research study. This approach was

adopted to enhance the accuracy and precision of the obtained results. Following the

distribution of carefully crafted questionnaires, the data collection process was efficiently

carried out within a one-week timeframe. This timely execution allowed for the swift

retrieval of completed survey papers, facilitating subsequent analysis and interpretation.

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Upon collecting the completed questionnaires, the research team transitioned into the

next phase: data handling. This critical step involved the meticulous interpretation and

analysis of the gathered data to derive meaningful results.

Data Analysis

In order to achieve an accurate result, the researchers analyzed the gathered data

with the help of the Chi-Squared Test of Independence. The data analysis tool was

utilized after examining the variables. The examination was applied in order to determine

whether the three categorical variables were connected or not. The manual formula

looked like this:

The research involved an examination of the data through the application of Chi-

Square Distribution. The degrees of freedom within the Chi-Square Distribution were

employed to ascertain the analysis. This statistical approach facilitated the researchers in

assessing the null hypothesis, aiming to investigate the potential correlation between

spending patterns and the associated cost and quality of products.

Furthermore, the degrees of freedom in the Chi-Square Distribution played a

crucial role in refining the analysis, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the

relationships within the data. The utilization of a right-skewed distribution suggested that

the data exhibited a skewness toward higher values, contributing to a comprehensive

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exploration of spending behaviors. The researchers leveraged the statistical tools to delve

into the intricacies of consumer choices, exploring whether certain spending patterns

were associated with specific product costs and qualities. This methodological approach

not only enabled a rigorous evaluation of hypotheses but also provided valuable insights

into the complex dynamics between consumer behavior and product attributes.

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Anderson, E. W., & Sullivan, M. W. (1993). The antecedents and consequences of

customer satisfaction for firms. *Marketing Science, 12*(2), 125-143.

Brown, A., Smith, J., & Johnson, M. (2019). The impact of product quality on brand
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 29

APPENDEDIX A

PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES

Appendix A Table 1: Program of Activities

ACTIVITIES OBJECTIVE EXPECTED DATE

OUTPUT

Generating a
To establish a title New Research Topic October 1-12,
suitable research
for the chosen and Title 2023
topic related the
topic.
strand (ABM)

Constructing of To be able to create Having completed the

Research Chapters the research paper first three chapters and October 23-
1, 2, and 3. for chapters 1, 2, prepared for approval. January 8, 2024
and 3.

To ensure that the

Revision of content of every Enhanced revisions of January 9 – 12,
Chapters 1, 2, chapter are concise, chapters 1, 2, and 3. 2024
and 3. well organized, and
 30

logically presented.

APPENDEDIX B

BUDGETARY REQUIREMENT
 31

A CORRELATIONAL STUDY ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN

DIFFERENT STORE LOCATIONS AND SALES PERFORMANCE OF BOBA
SHOPS IN ORMOC CITY.

A Proposal Presented to the Faculty

Of the Senior High School Department
Western Leyte College, Inc. of
Ormoc City, Leyte

In Partial Fulfillment
For the Requirement of the Subject
INQUIRIES, INVESTIGATIONS, & IMMERSION
 32

ARESGADO, CHEENE C.
DALMAN, SHAMASH C.
SOTABINTO, GRACE V.
SUNGAHID, HERO C.

JANUARY 2024