SWU PHINMA introduces Basic Education-STEM

Southwestern University PHINMA (SWU PHINMA) launched recently its Basic Education-STEM program starting June 2018 for Grades 1 to 10 students.

The integration of the STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) strand in its basic education curricula will prepare students better for the STEM strand in senior high school. Students will be learning new subjects related to robotics, coding and design thinking on top of the general basic education subjects.

“SWU PHINMA is one of the first schools in the country to integrate STEM in its basic education. With this new curriculum, SWU students will be better equipped with 21st century competencies like curiosity and creativity; collaboration and communication; independent and critical thinking,” said Roselyn Fortunado, Dean of School of Education.

The latest Labor Market Trends report shows that most of the highest paying jobs in the Philippines are in STEM fields. “By introducing STEM early on, students will be more adept and prepared at fields where they could build their future careers in,” shed added.

Basic subjects like English, math and science will be taught thematically with an increase in number of hours. New subjects like computer science, robotics, and coding will also be added. Design thinking will be added in lieu of Arts in MAPEH (Music Arts Physical Education Health).

Southwestern University PHINMA, earlier known as Southwestern University when it was first founded in 1946, is recognized in the region as a leader in medicine, dentistry, and allied health programs. The university provides students practice-focused, relevant, hands-on learning so they become the best that they can be.