Mathematics is considered as the queen of science, according to Carl Friedrich Gauss, a German mathematician, and is critical to the development of many other disciplines. It is a distinct subject which is an essential part of the educational curriculum. Math also serves as a tool for the advancement of all other sciences. Hence, whether we are conscious of it or not, we use mathematics in every facets of our lives.
In addition, Cherlita Guimalan, an educator, emphasized the importance of mathematics in our ever-changing environment. She asserted that people who are able to comprehend and use mathematics have much more opportunities and options for defining their future since mathematics competency opens the way to a prosperous future.
Despite the fact that mathematics is vital in our daily lives, students’ performance has not increased considerably. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian bemoaned the dismal performance of Filipino students in Math and Science during a special session of the Senate on July 20, 2021. He highlighted the 2019 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), which found that only 19 percent of Grade 4 students had some fundamental mathematics skills, while 13 percent had inadequate awareness and knowledge of scientific ideas and core science facts. While the 2019 Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics (SEA-PLM), reported that only 17 percent of Grade 5 students have demonstrated the mathematical ability needed to progress to secondary school. Likewise, Filipinos ranked second lowest in both mathematics and scientific literacy.
In response to these alarming results, the Department of Education initiated “Sulong Edukalidad,” a program that attempts to examine the K–12 curriculum, enhance learning settings, and “upskill and reskill” teacher skills, among other things. Senator Gatchalian also mentioned the need to enhance teacher quality and solve problems with the “spiral progression approach” prescribed under the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 (Republic Act No. 10533). Teachers, school administrators, and education officials must address issues related to providing a high-quality education.
We, teachers, must emphasize the value of mathematics to our students and encourage them to learn and enjoy it because it will equip them with greater opportunities for a successful future.
References:
Casayuran, M. (2021, July 20). Gatchalian calls for better learner performance in math, science to foster innovation. Manila Bulletin, p. 2021.
Cruz, M. R. (2019, December 5). Worst PH ranking in math, science, reading prompts DepEd review. Philippine Daily Inquirer.
Kurukkan, K. A. (2015, August). Retrieved from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED560266.pdf
Rimando, A. P. (2021, January 14). Educator stresses significance of Mathematics in a student”s life. The Manila Times.
By: Joy E. Vizcarra | Teacher I | Bataan National High School
