Yogyakarta- In a significant milestone for the SEAMEO Regional Centre for QITEP in Mathematics, a regular course on STEM for Mathematics learning was successfully implemented from May 3 to 16, 2023. This on-site course marked a significant step forward as the first in-person training conducted by the centre since the long-lasting pandemic. The course, held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, brought together 30 participants from SEAMEO member countries to enhance their STEM and Mathematics education skills. They are from Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
The two-week course featured a distinguished lineup of experts in STEM and Mathematics education, including Dr Kristof Fenyvesy from Jvascyla University, Finland, Dr Alongkot Maiduang from IPST, Thailand, Dr Farida Nurhasanah from Sebelas Maret University, Indonesia, and Dr Ariyadi Wijaya from Yogyakarta State University. These renowned facilitators guided the participants through a series of engaging activities and workshops designed to explore and share knowledge in the field of mathematics education.
The course commenced with a pre-test to assess the participant’s existing knowledge and skills in mathematics education. Over the following weeks, they actively participated in various immersive activities and workshops, focusing on enhancing their proficiency in STEM and mathematics education. The participants eagerly absorbed new strategies, methodologies, and pedagogical approaches, equipping themselves with innovative tools to create an engaging learning environment.
After weeks of immersive classroom learning and acquiring a wealth of STEM knowledge, our 30 participants were divided into five groups for an exciting real teaching experience in SD Negeri 5 Sleman, Yogyakarta. Under the observation of SEAQiM’s esteemed Board of Directors and the specialist team, the participants took on the challenge of teaching various STEM topics to grade 2, 3, 4, and 5 students. From catapults and wind-powered boats to creating beautiful cakes, saving people, constructing magnificent pinwheels, and building the tallest paper towers, our teachers brought creativity and innovation into the classroom.
In the last day of the Couse, the committee organised a captivating event as part of its course. The participants from came together to showcase their vibrant local cultures through captivating performances, including dance, song, and other cultural displays. The event served as a platform for these 30 participants to distribute themselves into eight groups per region, each representing their respective countries. With passion and dedication, they brought to life the essence of their traditions, demonstrating the beauty, diversity, and uniqueness of their cultural heritage.
At the Closing Ceremony of the course, three participants were honoured as the best performers, recognised for their outstanding performance and active engagement throughout the training. Their commitment to excellence and dedication to professional growth stood as an inspiration to their peers. They are Ms Siti Arofah from SD Swasta Yaspobri, Indonesia, Ms Naning Pratiwi from SD Negeri Lempuyangwangi, Indonesia, and Ms Noraini Asra binti A Rahim from Malaysia. “May your accomplishments pave the way for even greater success and impact in the years to come!” expressed Ms Ummy Salmah, the Course supervisor
In addition to the immersive STEM education, the participants also had the opportunity to showcase the richness of their local cultures. A vibrant culture show was organised, where each participant’s country proudly presented traditional dances, songs, and customs. This celebration of cultural diversity further strengthened the bond among the participants and fostered cross-cultural appreciation.
The successful implementation of this STEM course is a testament to the SEAMEO Regional Centre for QITEP in Mathematics’ unwavering commitment to empowering teachers and enhancing STEM education in the region. The centre plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Mathematics education by equipping educators with the necessary skills and knowledge.
As the participants return to their respective schools and classrooms, they carry a renewed passion for STEM and Mathematics education. Their transformative experiences during the course will undoubtedly enrich the learning journeys of countless students and contribute to the overall advancement of education in the SEAMEO region.
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