The Department of Science and Technology–Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) hopes to conduct more research to help address challenges in science and math education.

DOST-SEI gathered graduating scholars under the Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME) Graduate Scholarship Program, along with research advisers, educators and education leaders, for a four-day national conference from Sept. 30 to Oct. 3.

The 12th National Research Conference in Science and Mathematics Education highlights the value of research as a catalyst for improving science and mathematics education.

A total of 266 presenters lined up to share findings from their theses or dissertations.

“What is particularly important about this, apart from them sharing their knowledge with the rest of the community on a national scale like this, is that their ideas will also be tested when it comes to challenges in science and math education. Many of the questions they are asking in their research are about the crisis we face in basic and higher education, but essentially in basic education,” said SEI Director Dr. Jayeel Cornelio, in an interview on Thursday.

He added that their research has a very strong practical application, not just theory.

“That’s the kind of research that we foster here, and that’s the kind of research showcased at this conference,” he said.

Cornelio said many scholars are returning to their respective schools, mostly public schools, so they can likely use it in local settings.

Meanwhile, the SEI director said they are grateful for their larger budget allocation next year, which will allow them to accommodate an additional 1,500 undergraduate scholars.

Currently, SEI supports more than 54,000 scholars nationwide; about 48,500 are undergraduates, and over 4,000 are pursuing master’s and doctorate degrees.

He also underscored the need to support more future STEM professionals, whether in research and development, in industry, or in the academe.

“Regardless of where our professionals go, whether in research and development, industry, or academe, the important point is that we have a battalion of STEM professionals who can effectively address contemporary issues that matter in our country,” he said. (PNA)