Ateneo DOST-CBPSME scholars bag awards at the 9th National Research Conference in Science and Mathematics Education

Three delegates from Ateneo de Manila University took home certificates and cash prizes at the 9th National Research Conference in Science and Mathematics Education (NRCSME) held last 16 to 17 November 2023 at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City in recognition of their outstanding research presentations. Ms. Donna D. Bautista, MS in Mathematics Education, won best (1st) oral presenter for the category, "Conceptual Studies and Assessments." Mr. Jimbo Juanito B. Villamor, Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, placed 3rd for the category, "Learning Experiences and Teaching Strategies." Mr. Brent Brixxell G. Bonior, MS in Science Education, won best (1st) poster presenter for the category, "Learning Experiences and Teaching Strategies." Three winners for each category of presenters in both the oral presentations and poster presentations were given monetary awards of 10000, 6000, and 4000 pesos for the first, second, and third place winners, respectively. This was an incredible moment for the winning Ateneo scholars and their mentors who put unimaginable effort into their work. 

This year’s NRCSME, organized by the Department of Science and Technology Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), in partnership with the Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME)-National Consortium in Graduate Science and Mathematics Education (NCGSME) had for its theme, “Promoting STEM Education Research for Sustainable Development.” Seventeen scholars from the Ateneo de Manila University School of Science and Engineering – five MS and PhD Mathematics Education students and 12 MS Science Education students – participated, along with four research advisers from the Departments of Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry. 

The conference commenced with the Keynote address from Dr. Park Joonhyeong, a professor at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, on “Integrating Artificial Intelligence into STEM Education.” The renowned scholar provided an in-depth exploration into the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, shedding light on the transformative potential and challenges associated with this cutting-edge approach.

Following the keynote address was the first plenary talk by Dr. Marilou R. Gallos, a professor at the University of San Carlos, Cebu City who talked about “Gearing STEM Education towards the Attainment of SDGs.” In her thought-provoking presentation, she explored the importance of STEM education in accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering a captivating vision that resonates with educators, policymakers and researchers alike.

This was followed by the second plenary speaker, Ms. Josephine S. Feliciano, Science Research Specialist II. Her enlightening address focused on "STEM Resources for Teaching and Learning: The DOST-SEI Innovations in Science Education," providing valuable insights into various tools and methodologies designed to enhance STEM education across diverse learning environments.

Following the second plenary talk was the opening of the Technical Poster Session. The poster session had an impressive exhibition of research findings that were genuinely thought-provoking. It provided a forum for dialogue and relationship-building between researchers and participants.

On the afternoon of the first day, the Technical Oral Presentations were held. Like the poster presentations, the oral presentations were divided into the following categories: Conceptual Studies and Assessments; Learning Experiences and Teaching Strategies; Teaching Capacity and Development; Instructional Materials Development – Print Materials and Other Resources; and Instructional Materials Development -- Electronics, Technology and Media Devices. Participants nationwide seized the opportunity to present noteworthy and significant findings from their arduous research, respond to important inquiries, and establish research collaborations centered around common interests. 

The festive fellowship night marked the end of the first day. Scholars from the participating universities gave best efforts for their respective school cheers. Cluster group performances followed. Delegates from Ateneo danced to the tune, "We're all in this Together." The scholars' creativity and camaraderie were on display during this exciting and vibrant evening of games and activities.

The Technical Oral Presentations resumed on Day 2, the final day. In the afternoon, the third and last plenary talk was delivered by Dr. Samuel R. Soliven of the Bureau of Curriculum Development, Department of Education (DepEd). His talk titled, "STEM Education in the MATATAG Curriculum," provided a comprehensive exploration of the innovative approaches and strategies employed to integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) into the MATATAG curriculum. The most anticipated portion of the conference, the announcement of the winners for the Technical Poster Presentation and Technical Oral Presentation, followed shortly after Dr. Soliven's insightful lecture. 

Following the two-day conference, representatives from Ateneo, comprising four individuals from the Science Education program and five from the Mathematics Education program, participated in a tour of the stunning island of Camiguin. The island is not only well-known for its mouthwatering Lanzones but also for its abundance of interesting historical sites and beautiful beaches. The group went to the Sunken Cemetery, Soda Water Swimming Pool, Hibok-Hibok Ardent Spring, Old Church Ruins, White Island Sandbar, Mantigue Island, and Tuasan Falls. The tour was truly a spectacular experience that recharged the weary minds and bodies of the delegates after a cognitively rich and demanding conference.