Background
The British Council Philippines, in partnership with Microsoft Philippines and Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC), held its first education conference on information and communication technology (ICT) last 1 December at the SMX Convention Centre in Pasay City.
The conference, entitled “ICT and Deep Learning Skills for Better Education”, expanded on themes of digital literacy and critical thinking to help educators develop the necessary core skills of the students, through the integrated use of technology in teaching and in time for the implementation of the K to 12 educational system in the Philippines.
“In order to participate in a global economy, young people need to be equipped with deep learning skills or what is also known as 21st century skills...” - Lotus Postrado, Head of Education for the British Council Philippines
The conference also touched on the importance of ICT in the country’s national development, and presenting solutions to address Senior High School program requirements and industry skills requirements that will help graduates acquire the skills and qualifications that meet international standards.
Speakers
Speaking on behalf of the British Council were Mia Annisa, Seniour Programme Manager of the British Council Indonesia; and Neil Ballantyne, Mobile Learning Manager of British Council Hong Kong; Lotus Postrado, Head of Education of British Council Philippines and Mike Cabigon, English Education Systems Manager of British Council Philippines. Joining them were Ferdie Saputil, Director for Public Sector of Microsoft Philippines; Edizon Fermin, Head of Basic Education of Miriam College; David Tapang, Education Lead of Microsoft Philippines; Maria Melizza Tan, Programme Officer of UNESCO Bangkok; Arlynne Awayan, Director of the Center for Innovative Learning Program; and Ernani Fernandez of Palo National High School.
A second conference is slated on June 2016.
