Creating HArmoNious Group Environment (C Ha N G E) among Mathematics Teachers -cum Capacity Building
Keywords:
competency; least-mastered skills; School Learning Action Cell (SLAC)Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Creating Harmonious Group Environment (C H A N G E) among Mathematics Teachers -cum Capacity Building is a program for capacitating the Mathematics teachers of Palsong National High School on the contents, strategies, and assessment tools for the critical topics in Grade 7 Mathematics through sharing of best practices of the teachers during the School Learning Action Cell (SLAC) and transfer of learning through demonstration teaching.
METHODS
Theresearcher employed the descriptive method in determining the critical topics, best practices of the teachers in carrying out the identified topics, strategies they employ, and whether there was an improvement in the mastery level of the teachers after the implementation of the capacity building program.
RESULTS
Analyses of the data revealed that the critical topics in Grade 7 Mathematics are the key concepts and uses and importance of Statistics found in the latter part of the curriculum guide. The level of mastery of the teachers in these topics is "Good". In the delivery of critical topics, the teachers use discussion methods and cooperative learning. Among the best practices of the teachers in teaching the topics include: 1) the use of ICT in the discussion particularly to show to the students the various uses of statistics and in presenting data; 2) injecting humor in the discussion considering that statistics is a relatively new topic for Grade 7 students; 3) providing varied activities and allowing the students to learn concepts through these activities; and 4) relating the topics to real life situations to ensure a better understanding of the topics.
DISCUSSIONS
The results of the action research conducted indicate an improved mastery level among the Mathematics teachers along the critical topics identified. This can be a basis for the school to conduct a School Learning Action Cell on a regular basis not just in Mathematics but also in all other subjects.
