The 4th Passion for Scholarship And Love for Mission (PSALM) International Conference, held on 4 May 2024, at the University of Sto. Tomas in Manila brought together esteemed professionals, pre-service and in-service teachers, and faculty members from various institutions across the globe. As one of the pillars of unparalleled quality teacher education in the country, it is with great pride and honor that Saint Louis University (SLU) has been invited as one of the prominent partner institutions in the said event.
Representing SLU are Ms. Maureen Jane Bandoc, Ms. Vivian Grace Kitongan, Ms. Johnell Desalit and Ms. Dorothy Silva, together with thirteen (13) teaching interns as paper presenters. With the theme, “Advancing Teacher Quality and Transformative Education”, the conference provided a platform for lively discussions, insightful presentations, and meaningful exchanges among preservice and in-service educators. Here’s a glimpse into the significant experiences and key takeaways from this enriching event.
Participants from esteemed institutions all around the globe such as University of the Philippines Open University, Atma Java University (Indonesia), University of Sto. Tomas College of Education, and Saint Louis University, among others, gathered for the conference. Professor Cheryl Peralta, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs at the University of Sto. Tomas delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for a day of collaboration and learning.
The morning session kicked off with a keynote address by distinguished speaker Dr. Jennie V. Jocson from Philippine Normal University who shed light on the recent studies highlighting the challenges facing teachers nationwide and emphasized the crucial role of educators and educational institutions in addressing these issues. Plenary sessions delved deeper into important topics shaping teacher education. Dr. Edizon A. Fermin emphasized the importance of hope and resilience in the teaching community, advocating for policies and competency development to foster inclusive education. Dr. Joseph M. Velarde, from Taylor’s University (Malaysia), who explored the concept of transformative education, urging educators to transcend the borders of superficial learning and embrace deeper levels of understanding, emphasizing that learning must also be functional and symbolic. On the other hand, Dr. Kamonwat Phuwuchit, from Kampheng Phet Rajabhat University (Thailand), underscored the significance of curriculum development in preparing competent teachers for transformative education, highlighting the fact that effective instruction and teachers should start with the training institutions.
One of the highlights of the conference was the participation of our pre-service teachers from Saint Louis University in the afternoon paper presentations.
Kenneth Garcia, Harold Balinhawang, Kaye Bobadilla, Joseph Chiok (BSED SS4), Jeff Ferrer, and John Miguel Carreon, all studying Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Social Studies, presented their paper entitled “Publishing a Research: Shared Experiences of Pre-service Teachers as Novice Researchers in Research Journals,” where they delved into the complexities of publishing research papers as pre-service teachers.
Shainna Padang (BSED SS4), and Fraesun Runes (BSED SS4), presented their paper entitled “Teacher Education Exchange Students’ Lived Experiences Overseas,” where they tapped on the phenomenological narratives of Louisian teachers who are teaching abroad.
Patricia Pastorin (BEED 4), Kyllen Aspiras (BEED 4), and Deian Chan (BEED 4), discussed their findings on the lived experiences of private elementary children in physical education classes with their paper entitled “Lived Experiences of Private Elementary Children in Physical Education Classes”.
These paper presentations provided valuable opportunities for Saint Louis University students to share their research findings, engage in scholarly discussions, and contribute to the collective knowledge in the field of teacher education. Their invaluable commitment to teacher education has rightfully earned the respect and praise of various professionals and pre-service teachers who have also attended the conference.
A panel discussion, featuring school heads and education experts, and our very own Dr. Dorothy D. Silva, Head of Department of Teacher Education of Saint Louis University provided insights into current challenges and best practices in teacher education, particularly discussing the various ways we implement inclusive education not only within the city but also in the region. Subsequent plenary sessions addressed evolving learner characteristics and the role of microcredentials in addressing emerging teacher competencies, presented by Prof. Jacklyn Santiago and Dr. Joanne V. Serrano, respectively.
Dr. Louie B. Dasas, Conference Chair, summarized the key insights and highlights from the conference, encapsulating the collective wisdom shared by esteemed speakers and participants. Dr. Pilar I. Romero, Dean of the College of Education at the University of Sto. Tomas delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all attendees for their active participation and contributions.
The PSALM International Conference 2024 concluded on a high note, leaving attendees inspired and equipped with valuable insights to drive positive change in teacher education. As educators continue to navigate evolving challenges and opportunities, conferences like PSALM serve as catalysts for innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning in the field of education.
