By Romel Pascua, STRATCOM Correspondent

Sixteen scholars and five faculty members from the MMSU Graduate School (GS) participated in the 10th National Research Conference in Science and Mathematics Education (NCGSME), held at the SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga, on November 21-22, 2024. The event, organized by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute-Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (DOST-SEI CBPSME), provided a platform for them to present their research.

During the two-day conference, the MMSU scholars presented their research in both oral and poster categories, focusing on various aspects of STEM education, such as teaching strategies, instructional materials, and capacity building.

Among the MMSU scholars who presented their research were Diana Jane Lagundino (MAEd Physics), Mary Angeline Ponce (MAEd Science Education), and Angelo Apolis (MAEd Biology), who shared their findings under the Conceptual Studies and Assessments category. Other scholars like Maejen Clovelle Ebojo (MAEd Biology), Nolie Gerardo (MAEd Science Education), and Shzl Gwend Juliet Balion (MAEd Biology) presented their studies on Learning Experiences and Teaching Strategies.

In the Teaching Capacity Development category, Esralyn Ignacio, Macki Soneda, and Hannah Catrina Zech (all MAEd Biology), along with Camelle Eve Alviar (MAEd Biology) and Rafael Domingo (MAEd Chemistry), shared their research. Other presenters included Kristina Gabrielli Reyes (MAEd Biology) in Instructional Material Development – Print Materials, Vishia Gantala (MAEd Science Education), and Lyka Monique Olalo (MAEd Mathematics) in Instructional Material Development – Electronics, Technology, and Media Devices category, alongside Leo Mark Ulep (MAEd Chemistry) and Efren Agdinaoay Jr. (MAEd Biology).

Rafael Domingo, a graduate student in MAEd Chemistry, earned second place in the Technical Poster Presentation for his research on "Digital Literacy Competence and Technology Integration of Senior High School Chemistry Teachers." His work stood out among 14 participants from various universities. Domingo was mentored by Prof. Christy Ann Rahon.

The scholars were joined by their mentors, including Dr. Aris Reynold Cajigal, CBPSME Project Director, and other faculty members. At the Scholars' Gala night, Domingo received his award, and two scholars, Hannah Catrina Zech, and Nolie Gerardo, were honored with Best Dressed awards.

In an interview, Dr. Cajigal expressed how proud he is of the scholars' accomplishments. "It’s rewarding to see our MMSU scholars making a real impact in STEM education. Their innovation in research and commitment to continuous learning are inspiring, and we’re excited to see them continue to grow and contribute to the advancement of education in the Philippines," he stated.

The NCGSME conference, organized annually by DOST-SEI, provides a platform for scholars to share their research and contribute to the advancement of STEM education in the Philippines. The event centered on the theme “Synergies in STEM: Fostering Cultural Integration, Collaboration, and Innovation for Sustainable Futures.”

📷 The Paragon