DOST-MIMAROPA, through its PSTO-Occidental Mindoro, has taken a significant step towards upgrading science education in the province by providing the Versatile Instrumentation System for Science Education and Research (VISSER) kits to the Department of Education (DepEd) Occidental Mindoro Division Office.
This technology aims to enhance the learning experience of students in various fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and robotics.
The lack of adequate facilities for science education has been a hindrance to students' ability to explore and learn effectively in Occidental Mindoro.
Although schools offer Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) strands and special classes, the limited availability of resources for hands-on and practical learning experiences has resulted in lower examination scores and raised concerns among academic institutions.
Mrs. Louina F. Atlas, Head Teacher III of Rizal National High School, shared her frustration, stating that conducting experiments without the necessary facilities is burdensome for both teachers and students.
The lack of firsthand observation and manipulation of materials hampers students' understanding of the topics and their ability to connect them to real-life situations.
To address this issue, DOST-MIMAROPA, through PSTO-Occidental Mindoro, distributed three VISSER kits to identified school beneficiaries, including San Jose National High School, Sablayan National Comprehensive High School, Occidental Mindoro National High School, Magsaysay National High School, Sta. Cruz National High School, and Rizal National High School.
The VISSER technology offers students the opportunity to conduct over 50 science experiments. This handheld device can be used without a computer and is powered by a battery or power bank.
It comes with analog and digital sensors, acting as a central hub for connecting and controlling various sensors for different science experiments. The software includes data storage, a control interface, and analysis tools for users.
Mr. Argie A. Borcillo, OIC-Head of Science Department of SABNAHIS, shared his excitement about the VISSER kits, emphasizing how they have ignited a passion for learning in the students' eyes. The intervention in science education benefits not only the students but also the teachers.
PSTO-Occidental Mindoro has also provided training to the identified school beneficiaries on the proper handling and usage of the VISSER kits.
With this initiative, students can now experience hands-on learning activities and have access to a wide range of experiments in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and robotics. This step forward promises to elevate the quality of science education in Occidental Mindoro and inspire a new generation of young scientists and innovators.
