Science Education in the Philippines: PDF Guide

SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES Introduction. This lesson will discuss the concept of science education and will identify some strategies to promote science education in the country. One of the strategies is to establish science school that will encourage students to pursue their career in sc...

SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES Introduction. This lesson will discuss the concept of science education and will identify some strategies to promote science education in the country. One of the strategies is to establish science school that will encourage students to pursue their career in science and technology and to nurture their gifted potentials in sciece. Concept of Science Education. Science Education focuses on the teaching, learning and understanding science. This means exploring pedagogical theories and models in helping teachers teach science concept and processes efffectively. John Dewey (2001) implies the importance of utilizing the natural environment to teach student. Marx (1994) opines that science is going to be one of the most important school subjects in the future. Science education is justified by the vast amount of scientific knowledge developed in the area that prepares citizens in a scientifically and technologically driven world. Science education provides skills and and knowledge that are necessary for a person to live in what Knight (1986) describes as the age of science and to develop a citizenry that will meet the goals of science in the society. Developing a science culture is therefore an immense responsibility. Science Education in Basic and Tertiary Education In basic education, science education helps students learn important concepts and facts that are related to everyday life including important skills such as process skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills that are needed in coping up with daily life activities (Chaille & Britain, 2002). Science education also develops positive attitude such as: the love for knowledge, passion for innovative things, curiosity to study about nature, and creativity Science Education in Basic and Tertiary Education In tertiary education, science education deals with developing students' understanding and appreciation of science ideas and scientific works. This is done through offering basic science courses in the General Education curriculum. Science education in the tertiary level also focuses on the preparation of science teachers, scientists, engineers, and other professionals in various science-related fields such as engineering, agriculture, medicine, and health sciences. The state provides scholarships to encourage more students to pursue science courses. Science School in the PHILIPPINES One outstanding program for science education supported by the government is the establishment of science schools in various parts of the country. There are also several government programs implemented by the Department of Education and few private schools for science education. GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS FOR SCIENCE EDUCATION GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS FOR SCIENCE EDUCATION Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) This is a government program for gifted students in the Philippines. It is a service institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) whose mandate is to offer free scholarship basis for secondary course with special emphasis on subjects pertaining to the sciences, with the end- view of preparing its students for a science career (Republic Act No. 3661). Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) The PSHSS continues to pursue its vision to develop Filipino science scholars with scientific minds and passion for excellence. PSHSS students have proven to be a beacon of excellence, courage, and hope for the country. They have brought honor to the Philippines through their exemplary achievements in various international competitions and research circles. When the students graduate from the school, they are expected to pursue degrees in science and technology at various colleges and universities locally or abroad. Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project This project started in June 2007 with 57 identified elementary schools that participated or were identified as science elementary schools in the country. Since its inception, the number have grown to more than 60 schools nationwide and this is now its sixth year of implementation. The SSES Project aims to develop Filipino children equipped with scientific and technological knowledge, skills, and values. SSES Project mission is to: 01 provide a learning environment to science-inclined children through a special curriculum that recognizes the multiple intelligences of the learners; 02 promote the development of lifelong learning skills; and 03 foster the holistic development of the learners. Science School in the PHILIPPINES Quezon City Regional Science High School The school was established on September 17, 1967. Originally, it was named Quezon City Science High School. It was turned into a regional science high school for the National Capital Region in 1999. The school was a product of a dream to establish a special science school for talented students in science and mathematics. The focus of the curriculum is on science and technology. Manila Science High School The school was established on October 1, 1963 as the Manila Science High School (MSHS). It is the first science high school in the Philippines. The organization and curriculum of the school puts more emphasis on science and mathematics. MSHS aims to produce scientists with souls. In order to do this, humanities courses and other electives are included in their curriculum. Students are also encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities. Central Visayan Institute Foundation It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school- based innovation known as the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP). The DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern pedagogical theories adapted to foster the highest level of learning, creativity, and productivity. The school takes pride in its Research Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP) established in 1992, which organizes small international workshops to foster the informal but intense exchange of ideas and perspectives on outstanding problems in physics and mathematics. SUMMARY Science education deals with the teaching and learning of science and in helping the public develop science literacy. This is important in the promotion and development of science and technology in the country. Science education deals with the development of people in science, which is the heart of science, technology, and society.