CED trains K-3 teachers on design thinking
The MSU-IIT College of Education (CED), in partnership with DOST-Science Education Institute and the Department of Education-Regional Office 10, organized an online regional training titled “Design Thinking in K-3 Science and Mathematics Teaching” on April 21-23, 2021.
Sixty-six kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 teachers from the public elementary schools in the region participated in the three-day activity which was held via Zoom.
The training aimed to promote the Design Thinking mindset to K-3 teachers by letting them experience the Design Thinking process in a series of workshops. Besides making the teachers design thinkers, the training likewise intended to promote Design Thinking amongst K-3 learners. To do this, the participants were tasked to develop lessons in Science and Mathematics that incorporate the principles and processes of Design Thinking. The lessons were critiqued, revised, and prepared for implementation in their respective classes.
The lectures on the importance of early childhood education, characteristics and needs of K-3 learners, and the state of K-3 teaching and learning in the Philippines and in Region 10 also enriched the participants’ understanding of the gaps in the K-3 Science and Mathematics teaching that they may fill in using Design Thinking as an approach to problem solving.
The messages of the DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette T. Biyo, DepEd-10 Regional Director Dr. Arturo B. Bayocot, Jr., and CED Dean Dr. Amelia T. Buan elaborated the purpose of the training and inspired the participants to actively participate in the sessions.
The training is part of the DOST-SEI’s Project Science Teacher Academy for the Regions (STAR) where MSU-IIT is a partner university. MSU-IIT STAR trainers served as resource persons and workshop facilitators: Dr. Manuel B. Barquilla, Everlita E. Canalita, Jun Karren V. Caparoso, Grace P. Liwanag, Joneil B. Medina, Ivy Claire V. Mordeno, Joan Rose T. Luib, Mary Joy F. Luga, and Charity I. Mulig-Cruz.
CED Dean Dr. Amelia T. Buan, who is a STAR trainer herself also helped facilitate the workshops. Dr. Nick C. Pañares and Dr. Marino O. Dal, regional education program supervisors in Science and Math likewise served as resource persons. Mr. Rex Sario, a Master Teacher of Balogo Elementary School in Pangantucan, Bukidnon was also invited to share his school’s success story in implementing Design Thinking.
The participants received certificates of completion with 15 CPD credit units. They are expected to cascade the training in their respective schools and divisions within the year.
— Contributed news