Comparison of perceptions on re-purposing finished projects as teaching aids in schools

Abstract

Creative teaching aids enhance student engagement and learning outcomes by making the learning process more interactive, relatable, and memorable. These aids—ranging from visual tools like charts, diagrams, and infographics to interactive materials like models, games, diatoms, digital simulations, and multimedia content—stimulate curiosity and encourage active participation. Although a wide range of teaching aids has been utilized in educational settings, the idea of leveraging completed student projects as instructional tools remains largely underexplored. This study investigated the potential of repurposing finished projects, such as dioramas and bulletin boards, as innovative teaching aids in educational settings.  The study aimed to assess undergraduate teachers and students, and 23 elementary teachers and 58 elementary students’ awareness of teaching aids and to compare the perceptions regarding the challenges, benefits, and recommendations related to repurposing projects. The findings showed that there was a significant difference in awareness considering the occupation of the respondents. Also revealed in the study were the perceived challenges and benefits of the participants with regards to diorama and bulletin board.