Press Release
May 21, 2012

BETTER TEACHER TRAINING, PAY ESSENTIAL
TO EDUC REFORM--ANGARA

Senator Edgardo J. Angara reiterated that continuous training in science and mathematics and better pay for Filipino teachers are the top-of-mind reforms for the educational system.

"Better compensation and training will ensure that our schools can attract the best teachers out there," said Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Education, Arts and Culture.

The veteran legislator cited the recently released Teacher Development Study--Mathematics (TEDS-M), conducted by Michigan State University (MSU) and the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) for the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA).

The study evaluates whether students gain better mastery of math concepts from teachers with good training and knowledge of the subject. It also assesses whether there is a relationship between the salaries of teachers and students' performance in international examinations.

Not surprisingly, Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore and Taiwan, which are noted for their students' exemplary performance in science and mathematics, were found to have very high standards in assessing and accrediting their educators. They also provide higher salaries for their teachers compared to scientists in other professions.

Angara, also Chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, said the Philippines must follow the lead of its Asian neighbors.

"A few decades ago, the Philippines was closely associated with good education. To regain this standing, we must raise the standards in teacher certification, but at the same time also increase their compensation so that they are motivated to continue training. This will all contribute towards our long-term goal of S&T competitiveness," he stressed.

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