Putting Science Teachers at the forefront of the formation of tomorrow’s scientists
Project PEARLS (“Philippine Educators for Advancing Research Learning in STEM”) seeks to address persistent gaps in STEM education by equipping Filipino women educators to take the lead in preparing the next generation of scientists. Scientist education goes beyond just science content and must include authentic scientific inquiry. The conduct of these authentic scientific projects, or research experiences, depends on a solid foundation of science content, inquiry knowledge, and the nature of science (NOS).
The Philippines attempts to work toward this goal by integrating STEM research in secondary curricula. Yet, despite national efforts, many teachers report a lack of training and resources to effectively guide student research. Even if teachers have strong science content, inquiry knowledge, or NOS, it still does not mean they could teach STEM research effectively. This project tackles this gap through professional development, collaborative research, and institutional partnership.
Project PEARLS believes that science education should not be a passive transfer of facts, but an active apprenticeship into authentic scientific inquiry. Project PEARLS empowers teachers, particularly women who form the majority of the profession, to become catalysts of change in STEM research education.