A Meaningful Growth Opportunity: STAR Twinning Project Workshop on Language in Teaching Science and Mathematics

The Training-Workshop on Language Strategies in Teaching Science and Mathematics under the Science Teacher Academy for the Regions (STAR) Twinning Project was successfully conducted on September 9–11, 2025, at Bohol Bee Farm, Dauis, Bohol. This professional development activity was organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education and Innovations Division (DOST-SEID) in collaboration with Cebu Normal University (CNU). It was participated in by selected Mathematics and Science instructors of Bohol Island State University (BISU) across different campuses. The training primarily aimed to equip teachers with effective language-based strategies to enhance the teaching and learning of Mathematics and Science—specifically by simplifying technical terminologies, integrating language skills with content mastery, and fostering student engagement in learning. The program formally opened with a welcome address from Ms. Cynthia T. Gayya, Chief SRS of SEID, followed by an inspirational message from BISU President, Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, who underscored the importance of strengthening instructional strategies for quality education.

The parallel sessions were facilitated by esteemed professors from CNU: Prof. Helen Boholano, Prof. Ray Ferdinand Gagani, and Prof. Vincent Throdore Balo for the Mathematics group; and Prof. Erwin Corales, Prof. Jewish Merin, and Prof. Blanca Alejandro for the Science group. They were ably supported by DOST-SEID staff, including Ms. April Valdez, Ms. Monira Samaupan, and others. These sessions combined lectures, demonstrations, and interactive activities designed to immerse teachers in both theory and practice. Highlights included practical approaches to simplify concepts, contextualized strategies that linked abstract ideas to real-life experiences, and activities such as group discussions, teaching demonstrations, and reflective sharing, all of which allowed participants to engage meaningfully with the content.

Through this training, BISU Mathematics and Science faculty members gained valuable insights into the role of language in making lessons more accessible and engaging. They also committed to applying these strategies in their classes and cascading the learnings to colleagues through school-based activities.

The three-day workshop concluded with inspiring closing remarks from the University’s Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance, Dr. Maria Lilibeth G. Castil, who encouraged participants to continually enhance their teaching practices.
Overall, the activity was a meaningful and enriching experience that significantly contributed to the professional growth of the BISU faculty.