STEM or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning in the Philippines continues amid the COVID-19 pandemic through radio channels and online modules.
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, some students got to learn science through the Science Explorer and nuLab buses of DOST-SEI. But right now, even the regular face-to-face education is unable to function as usual.
In the face of these limitations, a collaboration between the Science Education Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-SEI) and the Department of Education (DepEd) is making continued learning possible.
DOST-SEI is developing a different approach to provide supplemental education resources by working together with DepEd through the RadyoEskwela sa Siyensya and TuklasSiyensya sa Eskwela programs. These programs will be available during the opening of classes this school year.
DepEd had earlier announced its preparations for the new school year that involves new modes of learning and teaching using various media.
RADIO SCHOOL ON AIR
RadioEskwela sa Siyensya is the program for elementary students which will feature story-based science lessons in 20 episodes of 30-minutes. These episodes may be replayed by regional stations and are offered to DepEd as resources for students who have to learn from home anytime during the school year.
The program chose radio as the medium to reach students beyond the urban areas given that 54.7% of Filipinos live in rural areas where internet connection is not easily accessible and radio is the medium of choice.
ONLINE SCIENCE MODULES
Meanwhile, TuklasSiyensya sa Eskwela is the program for junior and senior high school students. It is both a supplement to the education of these students and a STEM career promotions package. This program will contain 15 science lessons, each running for 30-45 minutes, all available on an online platform to be accessed anytime. These modules will be based on existing modules developed by scientists and scholars who will also serve as facilitators. Some examples of what the modules contain are process demonstrations and animations to enrich the learning experience.
Teachers can also integrate the episodes in both the elementary and high school programs in their lessons, and enhance their teaching skills through the Teacher’s Guide. The guide is downloadable from the SEI website and accessible from the DOST regional offices and Provincial S&T Centers.
RadyoEskwela and TuklasSiyensya prove that learning can still continue for students and teachers during the “new normal”.
SEND CHEERS in the comments below to DOST-SEI and DepEd for creating a way for students to learn no matter where they are!
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