For many Filipino young learners and their parents, mastering math and science remains a persistent challenge. This is evident in the country’s subpar performance in the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2019, where students ranked among the lowest in math and science. The results reflect a widespread difficulty with complex problem-solving and applying concepts to real-life situations.

But rather than dwelling on past struggles, leading educators are focused on a forward-looking approach: equipping students with the tools to accelerate their learning and build a foundation for future success.

At Mapúa University Senior High School (SHS), Mathematics and the ABM Strand Cluster Instructor Ms. Joy Camille Faustino and Science and Research Cluster Ms. Nicole Ashley Santos both agree that the key to unlocking a student’s potential lies in shifting from memorization to logical, application-based learning.

The Power of “Why” over “What”

One factor that may be affecting students’ performance is the curriculum. Faustino, who previously tutored students from the UK, Australia, and the US, noted that the curricula of foreign countries heavily utilize visuals and concrete examples to explain math concepts.

“They also focus on the “whys”—why things happen the way they do in mathematics. Since students are encouraged to develop logical thinking skills, they don’t just rely on rote memorization. Their approach to mathematics is logical. The common curriculum in the US is very good at building confidence, from the most foundational concepts to the more complex ones,” said Faustino.

Our local curriculum, on the other hand, tends to be quite intense, as it covers a wide range of topics that are difficult to master within a school year. Faustino said it could be advantageous for us to adopt teaching styles from other countries, transforming subjects like algebra and physics from intimidating concepts into engaging, solvable problems.

A Modern Toolbox for Hands-On Learning

Mapúa SHS, considered one of the top senior high schools in the country, further empowers its students by adopting several best practices from international counterparts, including drill-based learning for mastery of foundational skills, and inquiry-based learning to reinforce critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. It has also seamlessly integrated cutting-edge educational technology into its pedagogy, including:

• Personalized learning platforms like ALEKS and Cengage, which help students master foundational skills through drill-based learning.
• Immersive online laboratories like LABSTER, which allow students to conduct complex science experiments in a virtual environment.
• Comprehensive learning systems like MGH Connect, METIS, and Wiley, which provide a cohesive ecosystem for collaboration and coursework.
• These technologies are complemented by one-on-one consultations, regular reviews, and performance trackers, ensuring every student receives the personalized support they need to succeed.

A Partnership for Success

While leading institutions like Mapúa SHS are doing their best to elevate the learning outcomes of students, the truth is that academic improvement can only happen if children have the full support of their parents and family circles.

“Parents can start by building their child’s confidence, making numbers and scientific terms feel familiar and not intimidating. For example, simple conversations at home, encouraging curiosity, and relating math and science to everyday life can spark interest early on. This helps children see these subjects as approachable and meaningful, laying the foundation for their learning,” said Santos.

Encouraging children to watch math and science-related videos and letting them use educational applications early on, can spark their curiosity in these subjects while demystifying complex ideas and presenting drills in fun and engaging ways.

Parents can also introduce math and science principles during their bonding times with the kids. They can play math and science games or conduct simple science experiments at home. Ordinary chores like cooking, budgeting, marketing, baking, or basic carpentry can be used as platforms to demonstrate the application of basic arithmetic, fractions, and science in daily life.

Through the consistent and combined efforts of parents, academic institutions, and the educational sector, Filipino students will have a better chance of improving their academic performance in the future.

To learn more about how Mapúa Senior High School can help your child accelerate their performance in math and science in, visit admissions.mapua.edu.ph/portal and begin your journey to a world-class, future-focused education today.