CSU Graduate School Students Attend Seminar on Education-Research-Industry Nexus

Thirty-six students from the masters and PhD programs in Science Education (Biology and Physical Science) participated in the 2-day “Seminar on Education-Research-Industry Nexus: Advances and Techniques in the 21st Century”, which was held on May 6-7, 2017 at the CSU Conference Hall, Ampayon, Butuan City. The seminar was opened by Dr. Natividad R. Mamaoag, Graduate School Dean.

The seminar objectives were:To enhance the knowledge of the graduate school students on the trends and new developments in Science Education and Research, and to provide participants with simple, yet powerful strategies and skills that may be implemented to enhance the degree and quality of their teaching.

Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, CSU President, discussed “Innovative Strategies in Teaching Science.” Dr. Penaso emphasized that the different types of learners, teachers and teaching styles. Teachers should understand the differences among his/her students and look for innovative ways of imparting knowledge to students in the most effective manner. These days, traditional teaching no longer applies given the vast quantity of knowledge and available technologies. Students these days are more technologically savvy. Hence, teachers should use innovative methods to ensure that their students learn their lessons no matter the degree of difficulty of the subjects. This is important particularly in the implementation of the national K-12 program.

The topic “Science Educational Research” was discussed by Dr. Eleazar C. Galliguez, former CSU Physics Professor. Dr.Galliguez mentioned that science educational research improves science literacy, science being an important contributor to the development of the country. It also enhances student learning and encourages them to be aware of current scientific issues and their implications, such as the appointment of DENR Secretary. He then discussed research designs, data analysis, importance of variables and other aspects to consider in research activities.

Mr. Mark Anthony M. Lavapiez, Chemistry instructor of CSU, delivered a lecture on “Industrial Applications in Chemistry.” He showed some examples of applying chemistry in selected industries in Mindanao and CARAGA. These include the chemical, mining, wood, and petroleum industries. He also indicated the challenges in these industries particularly the inherent environmental and health hazards. He also expounded on the opportunities in the research and development of green solvents, biorefinery concept, and nanocatalysis. He also shared that by 2020, computational chemistry will be implemented that would revolutionize the teaching of chemistry.

The fourth topic—“Bioenergy: Sustainable Energy for Today and Tomorrow”—was delivered by Engr. Maritess I. Cabrera, ChE. lecturer. She discussed the current use of bioenergy or energy from biodegradable matter, the available biomass resources and current conversion technologies at the global level and in the Philippines. She also mentioned the challenges in using bioenergy. Nevertheless, the development of indigenous and renewable biomass for energy is important to ensure energy security and environmental protection.

The seminar was organized by the students of SciEdP 208 (Seminar on Chemistry and Physics Education) in collaboration with the CSU Graduate School and the College of Science Education.