What is happening with our country’s educational system?
According to a new test by the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), Filipino students have some of the weakest creative thinking skills in the world. The test, given to 15-year-olds in 2022, measured how well students can use their imagination and creativity. Filipino students scored an average of 14 points, placing the Philippines in the bottom four out of 64 countries.
This was the first time PISA tested students on creative thinking. The average score of all the countries was 33, with Singapore leading by 31 points. Other top countries included Korea, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
The difference between best and worst performance is significant. While only about 3% of Filipino students were as creative as the average student in Singapore, this shows that there is a potential for improvement. Similarly, 3.4% of Filipino students have reached a high level of skill compared to 30% in Singapore; in contrast, no students in Singapore scored at the lowest, while one-third of Filipino students did. This data proves the potential of our students to enhance their creative thinking skills.
HOW TO IMPROVE OUR EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
The recent PISA results showed the urgent need to enhance our educational system, particularly in developing creative thinking skills. The proposed solutions below are not just beneficial but crucial for the future of our students and our nation:
#1: Update the teaching method
We need to update the way we teach. Traditional methods like using chalkboards and memorizing facts are not enough anymore. We should use more technology and interactive tools in the classroom. For example, smartboards, tablets, and educational apps can make lessons more interesting and engaging. Online resources like videos and virtual labs can help explain complex concepts better than textbooks alone.
Having students work on projects that require them to think critically and solve problems related to real-life issues can make learning more meaningful and help students apply what they learn in real-life situations.
#2: Focus on basic skills
It is crucial to focus on basic skills. A strong foundation in Reading, Math, and Science is essential. We should start by identifying and helping students who struggle with these basic skills in the early stage. Extra help through tutoring and special classes can make a big difference. We should implement programs that promote a love for reading, drawing, and improving literacy skills.
Hands-on activities can help students understand subjects better. This includes experiments and using objects to make abstract ideas more concrete and understandable.
#3: Proper teacher training and a well-deserved salary increase
Teacher training is another critical area. Teachers are key to any educational system and need continuous training and support. We should offer training on the latest teaching methods and how to use them in the classroom. This includes workshops on project-based learning, technology-use, and strategies to encourage creative thinking.
Specialized training in areas like special education and classroom management can also help teachers meet the different needs of the students. By making these changes, we can help our students develop creativity.
We need to ensure that schools have better resources as quality learning materials and tools are vital for effective teaching and learning. By making these changes, we can help our students develop creative thinking skills and improve their overall performance in the future.
?){kind=link}
tangtangon na gyud na ang filipino language sa highschool og college. wla gyud nay gamit nga subject. gamit ra na siya para maka sabot ta inig tanaw sa mga teleserye.