EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
UNDERSTANDING THE PERCEPTIONS OF EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STEM STUDENTS
ON THEIR E-CIGARETTE USAGE
(Example title only. Input here your own title)
A Research Presented to the Faculty of
Senior High School
Emilio Aguinaldo College – Cavite
In Partial Fulfillment of the
Requirements for Senior High School 11
(Members name. Start with surname in alphabetical order.)
January 2025
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
APPROVAL SHEET
This thesis hereto entitled:
UNDERSTANDING THE PERCEPTIONS OF EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STEM STUDENTS
ON THEIR E-CIGARETTE USAGE
Prepared and submitted by
and has been reviewed and recommended as partial fulfillment of the requirements for Senior High
School Grade 11.
Accepted and approved by the Panel of Examiners following a successful Oral Defense on of
June 2024 with a grade of .
Research Teacher
Name of Panel Member Name of Panel Member
Name of Panel Member
Principal, Senior High School
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
CERTIFICATE OF ORIGINALITY
We hereby certify that the thesis entitled:
UNDERSTANDING THE PERCEPTIONS OF EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STEM STUDENTS
ON THEIR E-CIGARETTE USAGE
is our work and that, to the best of our knowledge and belief, contains no material previously
published or written by another person nor material to which to a substantial extent has been
accepted for award of any other degree or diploma of a university or other institution of higher learning
except where due acknowledgement made is made in the text.
We also declare that the intellectual content of this thesis is the product of our work even though we
may have received assistance from others on style, presentation, and language expression.
Researcher Researcher
Researcher
Researcher
Researcher
Researcher Researcher
Researcher
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
First and foremost, we would like to thank God for giving us strength, knowledge, and good
health, enabling us to complete this research. Without His help, finishing our research wouldn't have
been possible.
We would like to give credits to our families who supported us. They did everything they could
to help us throughout this journey.
We would also like to express our gratitude to our teacher in, who guided us in every chapter
of our research. Thank you for honing the capabilities of each one of us. We learned a lot because of
your passion for teaching.
We're also grateful to Emilio Aguinaldo College-Cavite for giving us the opportunity to conduct
this research.
Finally, to the participants in the study, we'd like to express our gratitude for their willingness
to help us in gathering the information we needed to complete our research despite their personal
schedules.
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
UNDERSTANDING THE PERCEPTIONS OF EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STEM STUDENTS
ON THEIR E-CIGARETTE USAGE
(Proponents and Research Teachers)
Emilio Aguinaldo College – Cavite Senior High School
City of Dasmarinas, Cavite
ABSTRACT
Keywords: adolescents, e-cigarettes, health effects, influencing factors, vaping
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Background of the Study .................................................................................... 1
Statement of the Problem
Assumption/Hypothesis of the study
Scope and Delimitation
Significance of the Study
Definition of terms
Review of Related Literatures and Studies
Theoretical Framework
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Over the past decade, e-cigarettes have gained popularity among youth (Short & Cole, 2021). Despite
being considered a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes carry their own set of risks,
including lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and potential harm to brain development (World
Health Organization, 2020). The aerosols produced by e-cigarettes, which contain substances like
nicotine, have been linked to cancer (Wasfi et al., 2022).
-Briefly introduce the topic of your study
- Provide general context and explain why the topic is IMPORTANT
- Mention relevant trends
Understanding STEM Students' perceptions of e-cigarette use in the Emilio Aguinaldo College Cavite
Senior High School context is a matter of curiosity and a crucial step toward addressing a growing
concern. The relevancy is high given the stressful academic environment these students may
experience, potentially influencing their e-cigarette habits (Reuter & Forster, 2021). Additionally, the
experiences and the changes in the students' usage of their e-cigarettes over time are also essential
factors to consider.
- Rationale. Why this research is important and worth conducting.
- You could mention the beneficiaries or contributions of the study. No need to too much elaborate the
beneficiaries because you had an opportunity to that on your signifcance of the study)
Existing studies on e-cigarettes provide statistical insights into their widespread use and availability
globally. However, such studies do not offer a qualitative understanding of users' perceptions,
attitudes, and beliefs regarding e-cigarette usage. Previous research has primarily focused on
quantitative data, and there is a significant research gap in the exploration of users’ perspectives
regarding e-cigarettes.
- Briefly summarize key findings from previous studies related to your topic
- Identify gaps or limitations in the existing research
Through this research, our study aims to fill the gap by providing qualitative insights into the
perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors of EAC-C STEM students regarding e-cigarette use. By doing so,
we aim to contribute valuable information that could inform future policies and educational programs
aimed at addressing e-cigarette usage among senior high school students.
- Cleary state what your study aims to achieve
- Summarize the importance of your study
- Provide a smooth transition to the next sections of your research.
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Statement of the Problem/Objective of the Study
This study aims to explore the perceptions of Emilio Aguinaldo College-Cavite senior high school
STEM students regarding the usage of e-cigarettes or vapes. It includes understanding attitudes,
beliefs, and behaviors about vape usage among senior high school STEM students at Emilio
Aguinaldo College-Cavite and identifying potential factors influencing these perceptions.
- Clearly define the problem your study aims to address
- Be specific and concise
Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following question:
1)
2)
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Assumptions of the Study
In conducting this study on e-cigarette usage among STEM senior high school students, several
assumptions have been identified that may impact the research process and outcomes.
1. Due to the age range of 16-18 of the STEM senior high school students, the researchers may
face difficulty finding e-cigarette users.
2. The respondents may become hesitant and fabricate their answers to our questions.
3. Students will be aware of the health effects of using e-cigarettes.
4. School administrators will implement stricter rules.
5. Other researchers will use this study as a reference.
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Significance of the Study
● Students– This proposed study will help the students to reflect on their perceptions and
misconceptions about the usage of vape at a very young age.
● Public Health Authorities- This study will serve as a guide that will affect the implementation
of more strict regulations on the use of e-cigarettes, the sale or resale of e-cigarettes, the use
of e-cigarettes by minors outside of school or on school premises, and funding programs to
increase youth awareness of technology used in modern cigarettes.
● Teachers– This proposed study will serve as a guide for the teachers to guide and facilitate
their students in properly using technology for the health of their minor or adolescent
students.
● Parents– This study's findings will help parents assist their children in improving their overall
health and well-being and raise awareness about how minors consciously use substances.
● Emilio Aguinaldo College Community– This study has the potential to promote healthier
lifestyles and decision-making among students, leading to a safer and more informed
environment within the Emilio Aguinaldo College Community.
Include the future researchers
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Definition of Terms
● E-cigarette - An electronic cigarette (e-cigarette), also known as a vape, is a battery-powered
device that contains a solution of flavorings, chemicals, and nicotine.
● Nicotine - a highly addictive chemical compound found in tobacco plants, stimulating the
central nervous system and contributing to dependence on tobacco products.
● Aerosols - Suspensions of fine particles or droplets in a gas; in the context of nicotine delivery
systems like e-cigarettes, they are the vapors that users inhale.
- A brief and precise definition of the term, offering clarity and context. It should explain the
term’s meaning in relation to the lesson or topic at hand.
- Provide the definition in a simple and straightforward manner.
Scope and Limitation
This study aims to explore adolescents' perceptions of electronic cigarette usage, focusing on senior
high school students in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand during
the 2023-2024 academic year at Emilio Aguinaldo College-Cavite. Only users of modernized
electronic cigarettes will be included. Data will be collected through interviews. Restrictions include
potential lack of generalizability beyond this specific demographic, exclusion of non-users, limited
geographic scope, and possible biases in self-reporting during interviews.
Scope:
The study aims to [state the purpose or goal of the research].
Focuses on [specific areas, subjects, or variables being studied].
Conducted in the context of [geographical location, population, etc.].
Research methods will include [surveys, interviews, experiments, etc.].
The population/sample studied will involve [students, teachers, etc.].
Limitations:
Limited to [specific aspects or factors, such as time, resources, geographical area, etc.].
Does not include [certain areas or topics outside the study].
Findings may not apply to [broader groups or contexts not covered by the research].
The results may be affected by [sample size, study duration, or external variables].
Generalizability of the results is restricted due to [mention any other limiting factors].
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EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE
Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Review/Survey of Related Literature and Studies
The rise of e-cigarettes among young adults and adolescents has raised worldwide alarm, leading to
extensive research on their prevalence, perceptions, and consequences.
Review/Survey of Related Studies
E-cigarette usage among university students has garnered attention globally, prompting various
studies to assess its prevalence, perceptions, and impact. Al-Sawalha et al. (2021) conducted a study
to evaluate the frequency, attitudes, and understanding of e-cigarettes among college students in
Jordan. It utilized an observational cross-sectional study design, employing an online
self-administered questionnaire between October 2020 and January 2021. One thousand two
hundred fifty-nine university students from both public and private universities participated in the
study. The findings revealed that approximately 11% of participants reported using e-cigarettes.
Among e-cigarette users, reasons for use varied, with 26.5% using it for smoking cessation, 22% out
of curiosity, and 20.5% believing it is less harmful than the tobacco. However, the study lacks
providing a detailed opinion of participants because of the use of closed-ended questions and
questionnaires. such a gap will make the study relevant.
Another study by Jankowski et al. (2019) found that young adults in Poland perceive e-cigarettes as
more addictive than traditional cigarettes, particularly among adolescents and young adults. The study
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Gov. D. Mangubat Ave., Brgy. Burol Main, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite 4114, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
examined the attitudes and behaviors of 30 cigarette smokers, 30 e-cigarette users, and 30 dual
users (university students) with higher education. The results revealed that e-cigarette use could pose
a significant risk of addiction, particularly among young people who are more dependent on nicotine.
On average, e-cigarette users consumed 4.2 mL of e-liquid per day. In comparison to the general
population of participants, the group of smokers consumed fewer cigarettes on a daily basis. It
suggests that e-cigarettes are more addictive than traditional cigarettes among educated young
adults. However, the study’s findings are based on relatively small participants, which could limit the
generalizations of the results. In addition, the study focuses more on the educated young adults, and
the finding could not be applied to other demographic groups. Additionally, Lindson et al. (2024) study
showcases the advertisement of e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes and a
potential solution for quitting smoking altogether. The primary motives for starting e-cigarette usage
were health-related, with a focus on harm reduction and smoking cessation, as well as financial
considerations. This study provides an insight into the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as a smoking
cessation aid. However, the study does not explore the long-term health impacts of e-cigarette use,
which could be an important consideration for individuals considering e-cigarettes as a smoking
cessation aid. Despite the limitations of these two studies, they provide significant evidence on the
health impact of using e-cigarettes. It underscores the need for further research to fully understand
the potential benefits and risks associated with e-cigarette use.
In addition, the study conducted by Pettigrew et al. (2022) aimed to evaluate the nature and effects of
student vaping in Australian primary and secondary schools by consulting staff within these
institutions. A nationwide survey of 196 school staff members revealed that three-quarters of
respondents were teachers and teacher assistants, while the remaining respondents were office
workers and other student-related professionals. The majority of respondents (78%) indicated they
were concerned about the high rate of vaping in schools as it stands. Approximately 50% of the
participants reported adverse effects on their mental health, social and peer relationships, and
academic achievement. Just 35% of participants stated that their schools had either a vaping policy
(35%) or vaping prevention education (31%). School employees are concerned about e-cigarette use
in schools, but there do not seem to be any appropriate laws or educational programs in place. The
study on student vaping in Australian primary and secondary schools provides crucial insights
relevant to understanding the perceptions of Emilio Aguinaldo College senior high school STEM
students regarding their e-cigarette usage. While the study focuses on a different demographic and
geographic context, the overarching concerns about the prevalence of vaping in educational settings,
the adverse effects on mental health and academic achievement, and the lack of appropriate policies
or educational programs resonate strongly. The findings underscore the urgency of examining how
such issues may translate to the perceptions and behaviors of high school students in the Philippines.
This study's emphasis on the absence of adequate regulations and educational initiatives mirrors
potential gaps in addressing e-cigarette use among Emilio Aguinaldo College students.
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Tel. Nos. (046) 416-4339/41 [Link]
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Understanding these parallels can inform tailored interventions and educational strategies aimed at
addressing misconceptions, promoting awareness, and mitigating the uptake of e-cigarette use
among high school students in the Philippines.
Review/Survey of Related Literature
Adolescents, including Senior High School students, are prone to the influence of the use of
e-cigarettes. According to the previous study by Miech et al. of the University of Michigan and Patrick
of the University of Minnesota (2019), the research examined the rapid increase in substance use
among adolescents in 2019 and the previous year. The survey’s response rates ranged from 80% to
88% for 12th, 10th, and 8th grade respondents with uncollected data due to absenteeism. The high
number of adolescents who are users of electronic cigarettes raises public concern as vaping has
potential links to lung diseases due to chemicals and nicotine, which are the substances used in
e-cigarettes. Advertising e-cigarettes directed at teens contributes to the factor of substance use
among adolescents. According to the previous study by Jones and Salzman (2020), adolescents are
much more vulnerable to advertisements on social media for e-cigarettes with eye-catching packaging
and selection of flavorings. This suggests that the target marketing of e-cigarettes gives adolescents
harmful health risks and an opportunity to access nicotine addiction and a gateway to illegal
substance use. The study highlighted the rapid increase in the population of adolescents who use
e-cigarettes. This suggests that the marketing strategies lurking around the internet caught the
attention of many minors or adolescents to use e-cigarettes and use them as a cool trend. This results
in adolescents becoming more vulnerable to harmful health risks; it gives them an opportunity that
leads to nicotine addiction, which over time can be a gateway to illegal substance use. The study
highlighted these issues, yet it didn’t delve into the effectiveness of current policies and regulations
about age restrictions on e-cigarette usage. There is a problem between regulation and enforcement
of guidelines or laws, given that many adolescents are still using e-cigarettes both inside and outside
of school premises despite age restrictions and school policies. There is a need for more effective and
stricter enforcement and reevaluation of existing policies to help reduce this issue of the rapidly
increasing rate of the population of adolescents that use e-cigarettes.
Various factors primarily influence the perception of e-cigarettes among adolescents. Park et al.
(2019) stated that both adolescent users and non-users of vape perceive e-cigarettes as popular
among their peers, with users often viewing them as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes
and more enjoyable. Non-users, on the other hand, stated concerns about health effects, addiction
risks, and potential gateway effects for other risky behaviors as reasons for abstaining from
e-cigarette use. These findings reflect the perceptions and attitudes of adolescents toward their
e-cigarette usage. However, this does not cover the factors that contribute to these perceptions.
Considering this, researchers have become interested in delving deeper into the specific factors that
influence their perceptions to fully understand their implications. The study conducted by Sapru et al.
(2020) identified several factors that contribute to adolescents’ decision to use vape. These factors
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SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
include curiosity, smoking cessation, perceiving health benefits, and being influenced by peers that
are users. Additionally, considerations like cost, how easy they are to get, and their convenience
significantly contribute to shaping adolescents’ perceptions.
Additionally, several studies have highlighted the influential role of various information sources, such
as advertisements, family, peers, social media, and the internet, in shaping adolescents' perceptions
and behaviors related to e-cigarette use. Bornstein and Craver-Lemley (2022) introduced the
psychological phenomenon known as the mere exposure effect, which suggests that repeated
exposure to stimuli can lead to increased preference or likelihood of engagement. In the context of
using e-cigarettes, continuous exposure to peers who use vape and extensive marketing campaigns
for vaping products can significantly impact individuals' decisions to try it themselves. This
normalization within peer groups and positive associations created through marketing efforts
contribute to the perception of vaping as a familiar and acceptable activity, increasing the likelihood of
experimentation and adoption. Understanding these influences and perceptions is crucial for informing
future interventions and policies aimed at reducing adolescent vaping rates and mitigating potential
health risks associated with e-cigarette use.
- use my example in our ppt.
- Identy your main factors (variables)
- look for 2-3 rrl/rrs per team or per variables
Theoretical Framework
Theory of Planned Behavior
The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is a psychological theory that explains how intentions,
attitudes towards a behavior, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence behavior
(Ajzen & Fishbein, 1988). This study aims to explore the impact of EAC-C STEM students' attitudes,
social norms, and perceived control regarding e-cigarettes on their intentions and actual usage, by
building on the TPB theory.
By examining the students' attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived control, we can better
understand the intention of adolescents to use e-cigarettes and their actual behavior. This approach
will help us develop strategies to address e-cigarette use among this population. In summary, the TPB
theory provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting e-cigarette use among
adolescents and young adults, which will guide the researchers in understanding the perceptions of
students on the usage of e-cigarettes.
Social Learning Theory
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SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
In 1977, Albert Bandura came up with a theory that suggested that individuals learn from each other
by watching and imitating their behavior. This theory is called Social Learning Theory (SLT), it
highlights the significance of paying attention to how others behave, their attitudes, and emotional
Theoretical Framework
Introduction:
- Start by explaining the general topic or problem your research addresses.
-Briefly mention the need for a theoretical framework and its significance to your study.
Key Theories and Concepts:
- Identify the main theories and concepts that relate to your research topic.
- Define each theory or concept.
- Provide a brief explanation of how each theory or concept applies to your research.
Relationship to Research:
- Describe how the chosen theories and concepts align with your research objectives.
- Explain how these theories help in analyzing or interpreting the data.
Previous Studies/Applications:
- Mention how similar studies have applied these theories.
- Include references to key works and their relevance to your research.
Justification for the Framework:
- Explain why these specific theories and concepts were selected for your study.
- Discuss how they help provide a deeper understanding of the issue you're addressing.
Summary:
- Conclude by summarizing how the theoretical framework supports your research approach and
methodology.
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