The dissemination of Ms Nelda Luciñada Oabel’s participation in the STEM for Mathematics Learning seminar was undoubtedly a success. Held on November 29, 2022, the seminar took the form of a workshop and saw the participation of 20 enthusiastic teachers from Luis Palad Integrated High School in Tayabara City.
The workshop, titled “Problem Solving & Mathematics in Context,” aimed to address the low Mean Percentage Score (MPS) in Mathematics among junior high school students, which was far below the 75% MPS set by the Department of Education. The lack of proficiency in problem-solving was identified as a major contributing factor to this issue.
During the seminar, Ms Nelda Luciñada Oabel passionately shared various strategies in problem solving and introduced the concept of Mathematics in Context, specifically Realistic Mathematics Education (RME). The participants were captivated by her explanations and were seen attentively listening to her insights.
The workshop shed light on the specific competencies that posed challenges for students across different grade levels. These competencies included solving problems involving sets with the use of Venn Diagrams for Grade 7, linear equations in two variables for Grade 8, quadratic equations and rational algebraic equations for Grade 9, and polynomials and polynomial equations for Grade 10. By addressing these specific competencies, Ms Nelda aimed to equip the teachers with the necessary tools to help their students overcome difficulties in problem solving.
Furthermore, the workshop emphasized the importance of creating realistic problem-solving activities to capture the students’ interest. By incorporating real-life contexts into Mathematics lessons, the participants learned how to engage their students more effectively and promote higher-order thinking skills, such as critical thinking.
Ms Nelda’s dissemination of Problem Solving & Mathematics in Context was not only timely but also highly applicable. The workshop provided practical tips and strategies that the teachers could implement immediately in their classrooms. By doing so, they would be able to enhance their students’ problem-solving abilities and ultimately improve their MPS in Mathematics.
Overall, Ms Nelda Luciñada Oabel’s participation in the STEM for Mathematics Learning seminar was commendable. Her dissemination of Problem Solving & Mathematics in Context proved to be highly beneficial for the participating teachers, who left the workshop feeling inspired and equipped with new knowledge to enhance their teaching practices. With continued implementation of these strategies, it is hopeful that the students’ proficiency in Mathematics will see significant improvements.