A Module in Teaching Science, Technology, and Society for Non-Science College Students

Abstract

Having to teach in the college department entails quality time and perseverance to do one’s work or task. It is in this line that teachers or instructors try to find more ways on how to uplift the teaching profession, in consideration of the benefits that their students can possibly get, and apply to their everyday dealings in life. Thus, the objective of this research is to be able to come up with a good workbook or manual, specifically designed for non-science college students that can hone them to become better individuals. This study was done purposely through the administration of the pre-test and post-test of a certain activity from the proposed manual, to be able to gauge well the deeper understanding of the target respondents in their daily dealings with the complexities of life. Science students in general do not have qualms or problems in dealing mostly with science manuals or workbooks, since the topics within are really in line with their field of study or respective courses. Thus, it’s about time that students who do not belong to the science courses be given a chance to be enlightened more about the sciences, specifically with those technological aspect that greatly affects man and the society.  The results presented in tables can clearly tell us some reliable factors that can clearly assessed the presence of an updated manual, for easy understanding of technological factors in the society.  The compilation of contents in the manual dates back from the development of science, citing the contributions of early scientists to the present ones. Another activity in the manual asks students to enumerate possible problems and solutions to understanding science, which embodies the science education in the Philippines. The alternative sources of energy was also pointed out and some thoughts on gene therapy was also included, and specific issues in science like agriculture , food and drugs were also cited. Higher technological matters were even included like robotics and nanotechnology, which can truly catch the attention of most students, and can make them assess critically of its implications to the society in general. More topics can still be added as time permits. Thus, having a good STS workbook or manual at hand can truly motivate and inspire students to read more, and act in accordance with what is necessarily implied in each activities or exercises.