CULTIVATING KNOWLEDGE: THE ROLE OF HOME GARDENING IN AGRICULTURAL ARTS EDUCATION

CATHERINE R. MANALILI

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. had instructed the Department of Education (DepEd) to help teachers and learners who are still adjusting to new technologies. The President believes that technology adoption in schools and the specialization of teachers will improve the quality of learning among Filipino students. According to President Marcos, the use of technology in education and the promotion of teachers’ professional development are crucial in improving students’ learning skills. He stressed the importance of taking the necessary steps to improve the Filipino learners’ performance and address the country’s poor performance in the 2022 Programme for Internarional Student Assessment (PISA), according to Gonong. The 2022 PISA results released in December 2023 ranked the Philippines third from the bottom in Science with an average score of 356, and sixth from the bottom in Mathematics and Reading with average scores of 355 and 347, respectively. The country’s scores in Reading and Mathematics increased by two points and seven points, respectively, but dropped by a point in Science. However, the increase or decrease in the country’s scores “has nothing to do with the performance level” of the learners. DepEd's immediate target is increasing scores until reaching the minimum level of proficiency. The agency will continue undertaking initiative reforms to reach its goal, considering that “it takes years to develop the students.”

-oOoThe author is Teacher I at JUSTINO SEVILLA HIGH SCHOOL-ARAYAT

The value of experiential learning in education has gained more attention in recent years. Agricultural Arts is one subject that has adopted this teaching method, with students actively participating in home gardening activities. This creative method promotes a deeper awareness of the agricultural ecosystem, environmental sustainability, and the joy of growing one's own food in addition to teaching useful skills. Education in the Agricultural Arts takes place outside of the typical classroom. It seeks to inculcate in students a feeling of accountability, reverence for the environment, and sustainable practices. A practical component is added to the curriculum when home gardening is included, enabling students to apply their theoretical knowledge to actual circumstances. Students can use home gardening as a hands-on laboratory to practice the principles they have learned in Agricultural Arts. It offers a comprehensive learning experience by bridging the gap between theory and practice. Students learn about the effects of agricultural activities on the environment directly through home gardening. They gain knowledge about the significance of environmentally friendly and sustainable gardening techniques, which encourages a sense of duty towards the environment. Tending a garden can provide therapeutic advantages by enhancing mental health and lowering stress levels. Through fostering a sense of mindfulness and respect for the natural environment, it enables kids to establish connections with nature. Collaboration between teachers, students, and the community is necessary to incorporate home gardening activities within the Agricultural Arts curriculum. Resources like seeds, gardening tools, and teaching materials can be given by schools. Furthermore, collaborations with community gardens and local agricultural specialists might improve the educational opportunities for students.

-oOoThe author Teacher III at Emigdio A. Bondoc High School