GED 109 REVIEWER

GENERAL CONCEPTS AND HISTORICAL EVENTS IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION

• The production, distribution and utilization of scientific knowledge and technological systems and the
effects of these processes upon the entire society

• The history and philosophy of science, technology, sociology and anthropology are the factors that
molded the development of science and technology of Human beings have embarked in scientific
activities in order to know and understand everything around them. They have persistently observed
and studied the natural and physical world in order to find meanings and seek answers to many
questions. They have developed noble ideas, later known as philosophy. Humans also used religion to
rationalize the origins of life and all lifeless forms. The idea of scientific revolution is claimed to have
started in the early 16th century up to the 18 th century in Europe because of the invention of the
printing machine and the blooming intellectual activities done in various places of learning. Scientific
revolution was the golden age for people committed to scholarly life in science but it was also a deeply
trying moment to some scientific individuals that led to their painful death or condemnation from the
religious institutions. Scientific revolution is very significant n the development of human beings,
transformation of the society, and the formulation of the scientific ideas. It also led to the creation of
new research fields in science and prompted the establishment of a strong foundation for modern
science.

SOME INTELLECTULS AND THEIR REVOLUTIONARY IDEAS

Scientists in all periods of time are driven by their curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity to
explore the physical and natural world. Their love for science is driven by their deep passion to know
and to discover.

Nicolaus Copernicus

His ideas were an example of what is presently called as a thought experiment. He was strongly
influenced by a book entitled Epitome published in 1496 by a German Author, Johannes Mueller. It
contains Mueller’s observations of the heavens and some commentary on earlier works especially that
of Ptolemy. Copernicus’s idea and model of the universe was essentially complete in 1510 and later
circulated a summary of his ideas in a manuscript called Commentariolus (Little Commentary). The
publication of his book On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres in 1543 is often cited as the start of
the scientific revolution. He wanted a model of the universe in which everything moved around a single
center at unvarying rates. Copernicus placed then Sun to be the centerpiece of the universe. The earth
and the planets are surrounding or orbiting the sun each year. The moon, however, would still be
orbiting the Earth. In his model, Copernicus two kinds of planetary motion: (1) the orbits of Venus and
Mercury lay inside the orbit of the Earth, thus, closer to the Sun; (2) the orbits of Mars, Saturn, and
Jupiter lay outside the Earth’s orbit, thus, farther from the sun. One of the great problems in the
Copernicus model was the position of the stars. The stars cannot be placed in a fixed position like
crystals in a distance sphere.
Charles Darwin

 Darwin published his books The Origin of Species in 1589. This book is considered to be one of
the most important works in scientific literature.
 His book The Descent of Man was so impressive yet very controversial. He introduced the idea
of all organic life, including human beings, under the realm of evolutionary thinking.
 Darwin’s accomplishments were so diverse that it is useful to distinguish two fields to which he
made major contributions; evolutionary biology and philosophy of science.
 Darwin truly remarkable was his courage to challenge religious and unscientific ideas that are
deemed to be prominent during those days.
 Darwin’s scientific activities is marked by observation and experiment.

Sigmund Freud

 Rosenfels (1980) described him as a towering literary figure and a very talented communicator
who did his share to raise the consciousness of the civilized world in psychological matters.
 Freud also made a significant contribution in the scientific world the development of an
important observational method to gather reliable data to study human’s inner life. This method
is popularly known as the method of psychoanalysis.
 His method of psychoanalysis had great impact on the scientific way of understanding human
nature.
 Freud is not a traditional thinker. His method was unorthodox – focusing on human sexuality
and the evil nature of man.

CRADLES OF EARLY SCIENCE

Development of Science in Mesoamerica

 Mesoamerica includes the entire area of Central America from Southern Mexico up to the
border of South America.
 They incorporated their advanced understanding of astronomy into their temples and other
religious structures.
 Mayan knowledge and understanding about celestial bodies were advanced for their time, as
evidenced by their knowledge of predicting eclipse and using astrological cycles in planting and
harvesting.
 Also known for measuring time using two complicated calendar systems.
 Built hydraulics system with sophisticated waterways to supply water to different communities.
 They used various tools and adapt themselves to innovations especially in the fields of arts. They
built looms for weaving cloth and devised a rainbow of glittery paints from a mineral called
mica.
 They are also believed to be one of the first people to produce rubber products
 Famous as one of the world’s first civilizations to use a writing system known as the Mayan
hieroglyphics.
  They were also skilled in Mathematics and created a number system based on the numeral 20
and independently developed the concept of zero and positional value, even before the Romans
did.

Aztec Civilization

 The children are mandated to get education regardless of their social class, gender, or age. It is
an early form of universal or inclusive education.
 In the Mayan culture, they used it as currency. The Aztec valued the cacao beans highly and
made it as part of their tribute to their gods.
 They used antispasmodic medication to prevent muscle spasms and relax muscles, which could
help during surgery.
 Chinampa is a form of Aztec technology for agricultural farming in which the land was divided
into rectangular areas and surrounded by canals. The Aztec calendar enabled them to plan their
activities, rituals, and planting season.
 The invention of canoe is a light narrow boat which helps them for travelling in water systems.

Development of Science in Asia

 Asia is the biggest continent in the world and the home of many ancient civilizations.

India

 Their iron steel is considered to be the best and held with high regard in the whole of Roman
Empire
 Ayuverda is a system of traditional medicine that originated in ancient India before 2 500 BC
 They developed theories on the configuration of the universe, the spherical self – supporting
Earth, and the year of 360 days with 12 equal parts of 30 days each.
 The earliest traces of mathematical knowledge in the Indian subcontinent appeared in the Indus
 Valley Civilization. The people of this civilization tried to standardize measurement of length to a
 high degree of accuracy and designed a ruler, the Mohenjo-Daro ruler.
 An Indian astronomer and mathematician Aryabhata introduced a number of trigonometric
functions, tables, and techniques, as well as algorithms of algebra in his Aryabhatiya
 Brahmagupta suggested that gravity was a force of attraction, and lucidly explained the use of
zero as both a placeholder and a decimal gift, along with the Hindu – Arabic numerical system
now used universally throughout the world.
 Madhava of Sangamagrama is also considered as the founder of mathematical analysis.

China

 Discovered various medical properties and uses of different plants and animals to cure human
illness.
 An example is the practice of acupuncture.
 Among the famous discoveries and inventions of the Chinese civilizations were compass,
papermaking, gunpowder, and printing tools
 The Chinese also made significant records on supernovas, lunar and solar eclipses, and comets
which were carefully recorded and preserved
  Cultural factors prevented these Chinese achievements from developing into modern science.

Middle East Countries

 Development of the scientific method in the Muslim world, and made significant improvements
by using experiments to distinguish between competing scientific theories set within a generally
empirical orientation.

Development of Science in Africa

 The development of geometry was a product of necessity to preserve the layout and ownership
of farmlands of the Egyptians living along the Nile River.
 The rules of geometry were developed and used to build rectilinear structures, the post of lintel
architecture of Egypt.
 The great structures of the Egyptian pyramids and the early dams built to divert water from the
Nile River are some proof of the advanced civilization.
 Known as the center of Alchemy, which is the medieval forerunner of Chemistry. They tried to
study human anatomy and pharmacology, and applied important components for the treatment
of the diseases.
 Documents show that Africans used three different type of calendars; lunar, solar, and stellar, or
a combination of the three.

Science, technology and society

An interdisciplinary course designed to examine the ways that science and technology shape,
and are shaped by, our society, politics, and culture.

Scientific revolution

SCIENCE AS AN IDEA

It includes ideas, theories and all available explanations and observations about the natural and
physical world.

SCIENCE AS AN INTELLECTUAL ACTIVITY

Encompasses a systematic and practical study of the natural and physical world. This
process of study involves systematic observation and experimentation.

SCIENCE AS A BODY OF KNOWLEDGE

Subject or a discipline, a field of study, or a body of knowledge that deals with the process of
learning about the natural and physical world. This is what we refer to as school science.

SCIENCE AS A PERSONAL AND SOCIAL ACTIVITY

Science is both knowledge and activities done by human beings to develop better understanding
of the world around them.

SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION
 The period of enlightenment when the developments in the field of mathematics, physics,
astronomy, biology, and chemistry transformed the views of society about nature.

SOME INTELLECTUAL AND THEIR REVOLUTIONARY IDEAS

Nicolas Copernicus

Contributed about the nature of the universe which has been essentially unchanged since the
great days of Ancient Greece, some 1500 years before Copernicus came on the scene.

Charles Darwin

Famous for his theory of evolution

Sigmund Freud

A famous figure in the field of psychology

CRADLES OF EARLY SCIENCE

Development of science in Mesoamerica

The maya civilization is one of the famous civilizations that lasted for approximately 2000 years.
These people are known for their works in astronomy.

Mayans are considered one of the most scientifically advanced societies in Mesoamerica.

The Inca civilization is also famous in Mesoamerica. The Incas made advanced scientific ideas
considering their limitations as an old civilization.

SCIENTIFIC IDEAS AND TOOLS THAT INCA CIVILIZATION DEVELOPED

 Roads paved with stones

 Stone building that surmounted earthquakes and other disasters
 Irrigation system and technique for storing water for their crops to grow in all types of land
 The first suspension bridge
 Quipu
 Inca textiles

The Aztec civilization has also made substantial contributions to science and technology and to the
society as a whole.

AZTEC’S CONTRIBUTION

 Mandatory education
 Chocolates
 Antispasmodic medication
 Chinampa
 Aztec calendar
 Invention of the canoe
DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENCE IN ASIA

India

 Developed various ideas and technologies useful in their everyday lives

 Known manufacturing iron and in metallurgical works
 Famous in medicine
 Notable in the field of astronomy
 Known for their mathematics

China

 One of the ancient civilizations with substantial contributions in many areas of life
 Known for traditional medicines
 Known for developing tools in terms of technology
 Known in seismology

Middle East Countries

Muslim scientists placed greater value on science experiments rather than plain-thought
experiments

Ibn-al Haytham

Regarded as father of optics, especially for his empirical proof of the intromission theory of light

Muhammad ibn musa al-khwarizmi

Gave his name to the concept of the algorithm while the term algebra is derived from al-jabr,
the beginning of the title of one of his publications.

Jabir ibn hayyan

Father of chemistry

Ibn sina

Pioneered the science of experimental medicine and was the first physician to conduct clinical
tials

DEVELOPMENT SCIENCE IN AFRICA

The ancient civilization has contributed immensely and made significant advances in the field of
astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.

Center of the alchemy and was metallurgy was known if the African regions.

Lembo Bone

Considered to be one of the oldest known mathematical artifact

Brief Historical Background of Science and Technology in the Philippines

 The history of science and technology in the Philippines started way back before the country
gained its independence from the American colonizers. Before the coming of the Spanish colonizers, the
early inhabitants of the archipelago had their own culture and traditions. They had their own belief
system and indigenous knowledge system that keeps them organized and sustained their lives and
communities for many years.

SCIENCE IN PRE – SPANISH PHILIPPINES

1. Embedded in the way of life of the people

2. Scientific knowledge is observed in the way they plant their crops that provide them food.

3. In taking care of animals to help them in their daily tasks and for food production.

4. Observed in the way they interpret the movements of heavenly bodies to predict seasons and
climates, and in organizing days into months and years.

5. Preparing the soil for agricultural purposes and like any other ancient cultures, they discovered the
medicinal uses of plants.

Technology is used by people in building houses, irrigations, and in developing tools that they
can use in everyday life. They developed tools for planting, hunting, cooking, and fishing; for fighting
their enemies during war or tribal conflicts; and for transportation, both on land and on waterways.
They also developed technologies in creating musical instruments. The different archeological artifacts
discovered in different parts of the country also prove that the Metal Age also had a significant influence
on the lives of early Filipinos. The sophisticated designs of gold and silver jewelry, ceramics, and metal
tools proved that their technological ideas helped in the development of different tools. All these
ancient practices in science and technology are considered now as indigenous science or folk science.
When the Spaniards colonized the country, they brought with them their own culture and practices.
They established schools for boys and girls and introduced the concept of subjects and disciplines. It was
the beginning of formal science and technology in the country, known now as school of science and
technology.

Learning of science in school focuses in understanding different concepts related to the human
body, plants, animals, and heavenly bodies. Technology focuses on using and developing house tools
used in everyday life. Life during the Spanish era slowly became modernized, adapting some Western
technology and their ways of life. The Filipinos developed ways to replicate the technology brought by
the Spaniards using indigenous materials. Medicine and advanced science were introduced in formal
colleges and universities established by the Catholic orders. The galleon trade has brought additional
technology and development in the Philippines. Although it is only beneficial for the Spaniards, these
trades allowed other ideas, crops, tools, cultural practices, technology, and Western practices to reach
the country. Some Filipino students who were able to study in Europe also contributed to the
advancement of medicine, engineering, arts, music, and literature in the country. The Philippines, being
one of the centers of global trade in Southeast Asia during that time, was considered to be one of the
most developed places in the region. Although the country is blessed with these developments, the
superstitious beliefs of the people and the Catholic doctrines and practices during the Spanish era halted
the growth of science in the country.
 The Americans have more influence in the development of science and technology in the
Philippines compared to the Spaniards. They established the public education system, improved

the engineering works and the health conditions of the people. They established a modern research
university, the University of the Philippines, and created more public hospitals than the former

colonial master. The mineral resources of the country were also explored and exploited during the
American times. Transportation and communication systems were improved, though not accessible
throughout the country. The Americans did everything to “Americanize” the Philippines. They
reorganized the learning of science and introduced it in public and private schools. In basic education,
science education focuses on nature studies and science and sanitation, until it became a subject
formally known as “Science”. The teaching of science in higher education has also greatly improved and
modernized. Researchers were done to control malaria, cholera, and tuberculosis and other tropical
diseases.

American scholars introduce new knowledge and technology in the country. The Protestant
church missions in different places in the country also brought hospitals and schools to far – flung areas.
Little by little, theses efforts built a stronger foundation for science and technology in the country.
However, World War II has destabilized the development of the country in many ways. Institutions and
public facilities were turned into ashes, houses were burned, and many lives were destroyed. The
country had a difficult time to rebuild itself from the ruins of the war. The human spirit to survive and to
rebuild the country may be strong but the capacity of the country to bring back what was destroyed was
limited. The reparation funds focused on building some institutions and public facilities like schools,
hospitals, and transportation systems. The reparation money from Japan was also concerned on building
highways and in providing technological training and human resource development in the country.

Since the establishment of the new republic, the whole nation has been focusing on using its
limited resources in improving its science and technological capability. It has explored the use of ODA or
Overseas Development Allocations from different countries to help the country improve its scientific
productivity and technological capability. Human resource development is at the heart of these efforts
focusing on producing more engineers, scientists, technology experts, doctors, and other professionals
in the country. The development of science and technology in the Philippines, based on its brief history,
is shaped by several factors and influences. Like in the history of science in other countries, it is always
shaped by human and social activities, both internal and external.

Science and technology may have significant impact on the lives of the people and in the
development of the Philippine society. However, improving the quality of science education still remains
as a big challenge in the country. School science from basic education to graduate education is
improving slowly, and there are only few students enrolling in science and technology courses.

Internal Influences

- Survival

- Culture

- Economic Activities
External Influences

- Foreign Colonizers

- Trades with Foreign Countries

- International Economic Demands

Development of Science and Technology in the Philippines

Government Policies on Science and Technology

Padilla – Concepcion (2015) reported that in 2015, in response to the ASEAN 2015 Agenda, the
government, particularly the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), has sought the expertise of
the National Research Council of the Philippines (NCRP) to consult various sectors in the society to study
how the Philippines can prepare itself in meeting the ASEAN 2015 Goals. As a result of the consultation,
the NCRP is expected to recommend policies and programs that will improve the competitiveness of the
Philippines in the ASEAN Region.

The NCRP clustered these policies into four, namely:

1. Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, International Policies and Governance

▪ Integrating ASEAN awareness in basic education without adding to the curriculum

▪ Emphasizing teaching in the mother tongue

▪ Developing school infrastructure and providing for ICT broadband

▪ Local food security

2. Physics, Engineering, and Industrial Research, Earth and Space Sciences, and Mathematics

▪ Emphasizing degrees, licenses, and employment opportunities

▪ Outright grants for peer monitoring

▪ Review of R.A 9184

▪ Harnessing science and technology as an independent mover of development

3. Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences

▪ Ensuring compliance of drug – manufacturing firms with ASEAN – harmonized standards by full
implementation of the Food and Drug Administration

▪ Creating and education council dedicated to standardization of pharmaceutical services and care

▪ Empowering food and drug agencies to conduct evidence – based research as poolof information

▪ Allocating two percent of the GDP to research

▪ Legislating a law supporting human genome projects

4. Biological Sciences, Agriculture, and Forestry

▪ Protecting and conserving biodiversity by full implementation of existing laws

▪ Use of biosafety and standard model by ASEAN countries

▪ Promoting indigenous knowledge systems and indigenous people’s conservation

▪ Formulation of common food and safety standards

There are also other existing programs supported by the Philippine government through the DOST.

Some of these projects are the following:

▪ Providing funds for basic research and patents related to science and technology. The government
funds basic and applied researches. Funding of these research and projects are also from the Overseas
Development Aid (ODA) from different countries.

▪ Providing scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies of students in the field of science and
technology. Saloma (2015) pointed out that the country needs to produce more doctoral graduates in
the field of science and technology, and produce more research in these fields, including engineering.

▪ Establishing more branches of the Philippine Science High School System for training young Filipinos in
the field of science and technology.

▪ Creating science and technology parks to encourage academe and industry partnerships.

▪ Balik Scientist Program to encourage Filipino scientists abroad to come home and work in the
Philippines or conduct research and projects in collaboration with Philippine – based scientists.

▪ Developing science and technology parks in academic campuses to encourage academe and industry
partnerships.

▪ The establishment of the National Science Complex and National Engineering Complex within the
University of the Philippines campus in Diliman. These aimed to develop more science and technology
and engineering manpower resources needed by the country. They also aimed to produce more
researches in these fields. The Philippine – American Academy of Science and Engineering (PAASF, 2008)
identified several capacities – building programs such as:

▪ Establishment of national centers of excellence

▪ Manpower and institutional development programs, such as the Engineering and Science Education
Program (ESEP) to produce more PhD graduates in science and engineering.

▪ Establishment of regional centers to support specific industries that will lead the country in different
research and development areas.

▪ Establishment of science and technology business centers to assist, advise, and incubate
technopreneurs hip ventures.

▪ Strengthen science education at an early stage through the Philippine Science High School system.
The Commission on Higher Education launched its Philippine – California Advanced Researched
Institutes (PICARI) Project to allow several higher education institutions in the Philippines and some US –
based laboratories, research institutes, and universities to work on research and projects related to
science, agriculture, engineering, health, and technology. This project is hoped to strengthen the STEM
competitiveness of the country.

There are many other areas and fields that the country is looking forward to embark various research
and projects. The following are some of them:

1. Use of alternative and safe energy

2. Harnessing mineral resources

3. Finding cure for various diseases and illness

4. Climate change and global warming’

5. Increasing food production

6. Preservation of natural resources

7. Coping with natural disasters and calamities

8. Infrastructure development

The Philippine Congress has also created various laws related to science and technology. These
laws serve as a legal framework for science and technology in the country. These laws vary according to
different themes such as: conservation, health – related, technology – building, and supporting basic
research, among others. Some laws and policies are in line with international treaties such as the United
Nations (UN), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other international agencies.

The development of policies in science and technology is shaped or influenced by several

variables: policies need to be aligned to national goals, consider international commitments based on
legal frameworks, and respond to various social needs, issues, and problems. Science and technology
policies ensure that the whole country and all people will experience the progress that science can
bring. Policies are guides to direct all efforts to a goal of developing a scientifically advanced country.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

- Policies

- Programs

- Projects

Social Needs, Issues and Problems

National Goals

International Treaty
Legal Frameworks

Famous Filipinos in the field of science

Lee Chua (2000) identified 10 outstanding filipino scientists who have made significant contributions in
Philippine science.

Ramon Cabanos Barba

Known for his outstanding research on tissue culture in Philippine mangoes

Josefino Cacas Comiso

Known for his work on observing the characteristics of antartica by using satellite images

Jose Bejar Cruz Jr.

Known internationally in the field of electrical engineering; was elected as officer of the famous
institute of electrical and electronic engineering.

Lourdes Jansuy Cruz

Notable for her research on sea nail venom

Fabian Millar Dayrit

Known for his research on herbal medicine

Rafael Dineros Guerrero III

Known for his research on tilapia culture

Enrique Mapua Ostrea Jr.

He invented the meconium drugs testing

Lilian Formalejo Patena

Known for doing research on plant biotechnology

Mari-jo Panganiban Ruiz

An outstanding educator and graph theorist

Gregory Ligot Tangonan

Known for his research in the field of communications technology

Caesar A. Saloma

An internationally renowned physicist

Edgardo Gomez

Famous scientist in marine science

William Padolina

Chemistry and president of national academy of science and technology – Philippines

Angel Alcala

Known for marine science

The University of the Philippines- Los banos is a paradise for agriculture, forestry, plant and animal
science and veterinary science.

The University of the Philippines – Visayas is also a national center for marine science, fisheries, and
other related science.

The university of Philippines – manila is a center of excellence and has produces many researchers,
doctors, health professionals, and scientists in the area of medical and public health.

The University of the Philippines – Diliman also has established a national science and engineering
complex to develop more research and produce more scientist and engineers in the country.

SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is trying its best to improve the state of science education in the country. One of
the strategies is to establish science schools that will encourage students to pursue their career in
science and technology and to nurture their gifted potentials in science.

The Concept of Science Education

Science education focuses on teaching, learning, and understanding science.

▪ Teaching science involves developing ways on how to effectively teach science. This means exploring
pedagogical theories and models in helping teachers teach scientific concepts and processes effectively.

▪ Learning science includes both pedagogy and the most interesting aspect, which is helping students
understand and love science.

▪ Understanding science implies developing and applying science-process skills and using science literacy
in understanding the natural world and activities in everyday life. Getting deeper into the discourse of
science education, John Dewey (2001) stressed the importance of utilizing the natural environment to
teach students. Accordingly, nature must indeed furnish its physical stimuli to provide wealth of
meaning through social activities and thinking. It is not surprising therefore that science education is
important.

(John Dewey was an American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer whose ideas have
been influential in education and social reform. He is regarded as one of the most prominent American
scholars in the first half of the twentieth century)

In fact, Marx (1994) opines that science is going to be one of the most important school
subjectsin the future. (Karl Heinrich Marx was a German philosopher, economist, historian, sociologist,
political theorist, journalist and socialist revolutionary.)

Importance of Science Education

 Science education is justified by the vast amount of scientific knowledge developed in this area
that prepares citizens in a scientifically and technologically driven world. Science education provides
skills and knowledge that are necessary for a person to live in what Knight (1986) describes as the age of
science and to develop a citizenry that will meet the goals of science in the society (Tilghman, 2005).
Therefore, developing a SCIENCE CULTURE is an immense responsibility for schools.

Science Education in Basic and Tertiary Education

Basic Education

Science education helps students learn important concepts and facts that are related to
everyday life including important skills such as: process skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills that are
needed in coping up with daily life activities (Chaille & Britain, 2002). Science education also develops
positive attitudes such: love for knowledge, passion for innovative things, curiosity to study about
nature, and creativity (Lind, 1997). Science education will develop a strong foundation for studying
science and for considering science-related careers in the future. This is an investment for the country to
develop a scientifically cultured and literate citizenry.

Tertiary Education

Deals with developing students’ understanding and appreciation of science ideas and scientific
works. This is done through offering basic science courses in the General Education curriculum. It also
focuses on the preparation of science teachers, scientists, engineers and other professionals in various
science-related fields such as engineering, agriculture, medicine and health sciences. The state also
provides scholarships to encourage more students to pursue science courses.

SCIENCE SCHOOLS IN THE PHILIPPINES

One outstanding program for science education supported by the government is the
establishment of science schools in various parts of the country. There are also several government
programs implemented by the Department of Education and few private schools for science education.

▪ Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS)

▪ Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project

▪ Quezon City Regional Science High School

▪ Manila Science High School

▪ Central Visayan Institute Foundation Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) government
program for gifted students in the country. under DOST, offering free scholarship for the secondary
course with special emphasis to science subjects.

▪ with end view of preparing its students for a science career (RA No. 3661)

▪ provides a dormitory for students.

▪ continues to pursue its vision to develop Filipino science scholars with scientific minds and passion for
excellence.
Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project

▪ in pursuant to DepEd Order No. 73 s. 2008, and DepEd Order No. 51 s. 2010 started in 2007 with 57
identified elementary schools as science elementary schools in the country

▪ SSES Project aims to develop Filipino children equipped with scientific and technological knowledge,
skills and values

Mission

Provide a learning environment to science-inclined children through a special curriculum that

recognizes the multiple intelligences of the learners; promote the development of lifelong learning skills;

foster the holistic development of the learners The subject Science and Health is taught in Grade I with
longer time compared to other subjects 70 minutes for Grade I – III and 80 minutes for Grade IV to VI.
Curriculum also utilizes different instructional approaches that address the learning styles and needs of
the learners like the use of investigatory projects.

Quezon City Regional Science High School

▪ established on September 17, 1967

▪ originally, it was named Quezon City Science High School.

▪ turned into a regional science high school for the National Capital Region in 1999

▪ curriculum is focused on science and technology

▪ additional subjects in science and technology that students should take

▪ venue in providing maximum opportunities to develop spirit of inquiry and creativity

Manila Science High School

▪ established on October 1, 1963 as the Manila Science High School (MSHS)

▪ first science high school in the Philippines.

▪ the organization and curriculum put more emphasis on Science and Mathematics

▪ aims to produce scientists with souls

▪ humanities courses and other electives are included in the curriculum

▪ encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities.

Central Visayan Institute Foundation

It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school-based innovation known as the Dynamic
Learning Program (DLP). DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern pedagogical theories adapted to
foster the highest level of learning, creativity and productivity. The school takes pride in its Research
Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP) establish in 1992, which organizes small international workshops.
Science education deals with the teaching and learning of science and in helping the public develop
science literacy. This is important in the promotion and development of science and technology in the
country. Science education deals with the development of people in science, which is the heart of
science, technology and society.

INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES

Filipinos during the early times, tried to invent tools that will help them in everyday life. They
also developed alternative ideas in explaining various phenomena and in explaining the world around
them.

INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM

 Embedded in the daily life experiences of young children as they grow up

 Parents and other older folks served as their first teachers and their methods of
teaching are very effective in transmitting cultural knowledge in their minds.

Indigenous knowledge that are taught and practice by the indigenous people

 Predicting weather conditions and seasons using knowledge in observing animals behavior and
celestial bodies
 Using herbal medicine
 Preserving foods
 Classifying plants and animals into families and groups based on cultural properties
 Keeping the custom of growing plants and vegetables in the yard
 Preserving and selecting good seeds for planting
 Using indigenous technology in daily lives
 Building local irrigation systems
 Classifying different types of soil for planting based on cultural properties
 Producing wines and juices from tropical fruits

INDIGENOUS SCIENCE

 Include complex arrays of knowledge, expertise, practices, and representations that guide
human societies in their enumerable interactions with the natural milieu
 Ogawa (2015) claimed that is collectively lived in and experienced by the people of a given
culture
 Cajete (2004), indigenous science included everything from methaphysics to philosophy an
various practical technologies

Indigenous beliefs also developed desirable values that are relevant or consistent to scientific attitudes
as identified by Johnston (2000)

INDIGENOUS BELIEFS

 Motivating attitudes
  Cooperating
 Practical
 Reflective

INDIGENOUS SCIENCE

 Pawilen (2005) explained that indigenous science knowledge has developed diverse structures
and contents through the interplay between the society and the government,
 Sabisi (2004) pointed out that indigenous science provides the basics of astronomy,
pharmacology, food technology, or metallurgy

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY AND THE HUMAN CONDITION

HUMAN FLOURISHING

What is Happiness?

▪ In psychology, happiness is a mental or emotional state of well-being which can be defined by, among
others, positive or pleasant emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy.

▪ To behaviorists, happiness is a cocktail of emotions we experience when we do something good or

positive.

▪ To neurologists, happiness is the experience of a flood of hormones released in the brain as a reward
for behavior that prolongs survival.

▪ The hedonistic view of well-being is that happiness is the polar opposite of suffering, the presence of
happiness indicates the absence of pain. Because of this, hedonists believe that the purpose of life is to
maximize happiness, which minimizes misery.

▪ Eudaimonia, a term that combines the Greek words for "good" and "spirit" to describe the ideology.
Eudaimonia defines happiness as the pursuit of becoming a better person. Eudaimonists do this by
challenging themselves intellectually or by engaging in activities that make them spiritually richer
people.

EUDAIMONIA

▪ good spirited

▪ coined by Greek philosopher Aristotle

▪ describes the pinnacle of happiness that is attainable by humans

▪ “Human flourishing”

ARISTOTLE
▪ Aristotle believed that human flourishing requires a life with other people. Aristotle taught that people
acquire virtues through practice and that a set of concrete virtues could lead a person toward his natural
excellence and happiness.

▪ According to Aristotle, there is an end of all of the actions that we perform which we desire for itself.
This is what is known as eudaimonia, flourishing, or happiness, which is desired for its own sake with all
other things being desired on its account. Eudaimonia is a property of one's life when considered as a
whole. Flourishing is the highest good of human endeavors and that toward which all actions aim. It is
success as a human being. The best life is one of excellent human activity.

▪ From Nicomachean Ethics (the philosophical inquiry into the nature of the good life for a human
being.) Human flourishing arises as a result of different components such as

▪ Phronesis

▪ Friendship

▪ Wealth

▪ Power

In ancient Greek society, they believe that acquiring these will surely bring the seekers happiness, which
in effect allows them to partake in the greater notion of what we call the Good.

▪ As time changes, elements that comprise human flourishing changed.

▪ People found means to live more comfortably, explore more places, develop more products, and make
more money.

▪ Humans of today are expected to become “man of the world.”

▪ Supposed to situate himself in a global neighborhood, working side by side among institutions and the
government to be able to reach a common goal.

DIFFERENCE CONCEPTIONS OF HUMAN FLOURISHING

EASTERN

 Focus is community-centric
 Individual should sacrifice himself for the sake of society
 Chinese Confucian system
 Japanese Bushido
 Encourage studies of literature, sciences, and art for a greater cause

WESTERN

 Aristotelian view
 More focused on the individual
 Human flourishing as an end
 Aims for Eudaimonia as the ultimate good

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND HUMAN FLOURISHING

▪ Every discovery, innovation, and success contribute to our pool of human knowledge.

▪ Human’s perpetual needs to locate himself in the world by finding proofs to trace evolution.

▪ Elicits our idea of self-importance.

▪ Technology is a human activity we excel in as a result of achieving science. (Heidegger)

▪ Good is inherently related to the truth.

SCIENCE AS METHODS AND RESULTS

▪ Science stems from objectivity brought upon by a rigid method

▪ Claim to reason and empiricism

STEPS IN SCIENTIFIC METHOD

In school, the scientific method is introduced in the earlier part of discussions. Even though the
number of steps varies, it presents a general idea how to do science:

1. Observe and determine if there are unexplained occurrences unfolding.

2. Determine the problem and identify factors involved.

3. Through past knowledge of similar instance, formulate hypothesis that could explain the said
phenomenon. Ideally, the goal is to reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis of
the study “to count as significant” (can also be separated into additional steps such as “to generate
prediction” or “to infer from past experiments”).

4. Conduct experiment by setting up dependent and independent variables, and trying to see how
independent ones affect dependent ones.

5. Gather and analyze results throughout and upon culmination of the experiment. Examine if the data
gathered are significant enough to conclude results.

6. Formulate conclusion and provide recommendation in case others would want to broaden the study.

Verification theory

▪ A discipline is science if it can be confirmed or interpreted in the event of an alternative hypothesis

being accepted.

▪ Premium on empiricism

▪ Takes into account those results which are measurable and experiments which are repeatable.

Vienna Circle

▪ group of scholars who believed that only those which can be observed should be regarded as
meaningful

▪ Reject those which cannot be directly accessed as meaningless.

Falsification Theory
▪ As long as an ideology is not proven to be false and can best explain a phenomenon over alternative
theories, we should accept the said ideology.

▪ Allowed emergence of theories otherwise rejected by the verification theory.

▪ Encourages research in order to determine which among the theories can stand the test of falsification

Karl Popper

▪ aim at the production of new, falsifiable predictions

▪ scientific practice is characterized by its continual effort to test theories against experience and make
revisions based on the outcomes of these tests

TECHNOLOGY AS A WAY OF REVEALING

INTRODUCTION

Comparing the lives of the people before and now will make anyone realize the changes that
happened in society not just in terms of culture, language, or rights but more importantly, changes in
people's way of life due to the existence of science and technology. The term “generation gap” is
attributed mainly to the changes brought about by technology. Although the original idea is for
technology to help everyone, it cannot be denied that until today, not everyone is comfortable in using
the different kinds of technologies. Mostly those who belong to the older generation think that these
technologies are too complicated to operate. They have been used to the simple living in the past and
these available technological devices, though very appealing, are a difficult puzzle to them.

However, this gap is not something to be worried about. This does not in any way make technology a
villain. Instead, it is a challenge for people in the field of science and technology to make these
technological advancements more accessible and less confusing for people who are to as young
anymore. This is also a challenge for the younger generation take the older generation to an exciting
journey in science and technology. In this way, everyone can experience what it is like to live with ease
and comfort because of the availability of modem technology. Even before, people are already
fascinated with science and technology. This fascination led to numerous magnificent inventions that
people in the present are able to enjoy and benefit from. Through science and technology, people get to
experience what it really means to live because it helps people in more ways than one.

People who lived in the past and people who are living in the present all have different views of
what it means to flourish, primarily due to the kind of environment and the period one is in. People's
ways of life and how the society works also affect how one construes the concept of human flourishing.
The environment needs to be assessed in order to know the possibility of human flourishing and to what
extent it is possible. Since there have been drastic changes in people's way of life, it can be inferred that
there have been drastic changes not only in the conception of human flourishing but to people's actual
human condition. These changes were brought about by the interplay of different factors but
essentially, it was brought about by science and technology.

THE HUMAN CONDITION BEFORE COMMON ERA

 Our early ancestors' primal need to survive paved way for the invention of several
developments. Gifted with brains more advanced than other creatures, humans are able to utilize
abundant materials for their own ease and comfort. As it is difficult to pinpoint the particular period
where technology is said to have started, one can say that at the very least, the motivation to make
things easier has been around since humans are. Homo erectus have been using fire to cook, through
chipping one flint over the other to produce a spark, all the while without realizing the laws of friction
and heat. Tools from stone and flints marked the era of the Age, during the advent of our very own
Homo sapiens, and humans began to sharpen stones as one would a knife; an example of this is the
simple machine called wedge. This particular period proved to be difficult for our ancestors, but in a
remarkably distinct way. There is little to no written accounts except for several cave drawings and
unearthed artifacts from various parts of the world that narrate how their culture came to be. It then
proves that there is little capacity for our ancestors to contemplate and perceive things outside
themselves in a more reflective manner. For instance, there are several excavations in different parts of
Europe of miniature statues prevalent during the Paleolithic period, the so-called "Venus" figure. It
depicts a rudimentary carving of a voluptuous woman out of ivory or stone. The reason behind this is
still unknown to archaeologists and anthropologists alike; they can only infer that the humans of
yesterday have a certain fixation on the female anatomy. What did this fascination translate to? Lack of
conclusive evidence hinders us from proceeding any further.

Soon enough, people discovered minerals and began forging metalwork. They realized that
these substances are more durable, malleable, and have more luster than the previous material. On the
other hand, there are some indicators that humans in the past share the same concerns and interests,
suggesting that these inclinations persist through multitudes of generation over several millennia. Fur
clothing and animal skin are primarily used for comfort against harsh winds—our ancestors are able to
draw the connection between their being naked and vulnerable due to some lack of fur or protective
covering which would otherwise allow them to withstand extreme weather conditions. They begin to
cover themselves up out of necessity, and gradually, added several more to their garments. Some of
those found at excavation sites are reminiscent of early accessories, suggesting that our ancestors have
been deeply engaged in the concept of beauty. Perhaps, they had taken a liking to a certain shiny stone,
or a perfectly shaped bone, and wanted to wear it as trophy. What does this tell of them and their
philosophies? Were they perhaps proud to show off their hunt and how good of a hunter they were?
Were they concerned with social standing and stratification? How about the meaning of life? Were they
also curious on finding explanations to certain phenomena?

At least for the last question, it seems that they have found their answer in the person of religion.
Excavations on the latter half of the Stone Age include several figures thought to be ceremonial,
meaning, that perhaps people of the time had also painstakingly wrought and hewed said figures in
honor of some deity. This notion, as it was then and as it is now, is often people's resort to make sense
of events happening outside their control. The initial roster of primitive gods includes objects they
encounter through their day-to-day lives, so it is not surprising that different tribes may have different
gods. Those who might have lived alongside majestic creatures, such as elephants and mammoths,
might have been awed by their size and worshiped them as the owner of the land, asking for blessings in
their hunting ground. On the contrary, they might have hunted the mammoths for their woolly coat and
meat, taking down the animal for the entire community to eat. In windy places near mountains, they
might have had a mountain god to explain wind currents and ask for provisions. On the other hand,
those who were near coastal areas or bodies of water might have had water gods they referred to when
asking for a good catch. However, it might be also the case that people of prior civilizations shared
several generic gods, such as the sun. Nevertheless, it can be positively inferred that like the people of
today, our ancestors also found the need to explain things in a way that makes sense to them. They
quickly realized that there are events outside of their control and attempted to justify things as being a
work of a supernatural being. Throughout the course of history, religion remains to be the strongest
contender to science arguably due to its most easily grasped. Admittedly, once people stop connecting
the dots between cause and effect, they turn to something that would possibly explain their
inadequacies in making sense of the world. The people of yesterday appeared to have acknowledged
early on that they could only do and understand as much, that perhaps other alongside them. This
notion effectively humbled and perhaps grounded them, with their constant befuddlement serving as an
early reminder that they were way behind several larger, more powerful forces in nature in terms of
order of things.

THE HUMAN CONDITION IN THE COMMON ERA

For a long time, humans were content with their relationship with nature. Earliest case of man
made extinction occurred over 12,000 years ago, possibly brought upon by hunting and territorial
disputes.

The Holocene extinction, also called the sixth extinction or more aptly Anthropocene extinction,
occurred from as early as between 100,000 to 200,000 years up to the present. It pertains to the
ongoing extinction of several species—both flora and fauna—due to human activity. Driven by their
primal need. to survive and gaining the upper hand in terms of development and adaptability, humans
were quick to find ways to drive off other megafaunas threatening a prospective hunting spot and
eventually, settling grounds. Growing population also necessitated finding additional resources, leading
to overhunting and overfishing common prey, some of which were endemic to the area. Hunting,
coupled with a changing terrain that the humans began cultivating when agriculture emerged some
9,000 years ago, caused several species to lose competition in territory and food resources. Formation of
communities caused humans to expand more in territory and more people to feed; large, separate
communities hailing from the same ancestors and residing in the same large community paved way for
civilizations. Even as a community, the people realized that though they were at most self-sufficient,
they were in constant need of resources. Albeit waging wars with other tribes seemed to be the early
solution, they were able to find out some 5,000 years ago that engaging in a peaceful negotiation was
also a possible and less bloody method. They realized that they could get hold of things not present in
their towns by offering something of same value present in theirs. It is in this process that trade
emerged, leading to cross-town and eventually cross-cultural interaction as more products were
exchanged and the initial needs extended to wants.

People then had a new objective—gather as much products as possible. They have turned to
wealth as one of their goals as humans and ultimately as civilizations, for they perceived that those who
have many, live comfortably and thus are generally happier than those who do not have sufficient
wealth. Thus, they began to hunt, farm, and produce things prospect of profit. A nuclear community
which is initially self-sufficient has to accommodate their growing population with depleting resources,
leading them to be reliant to other communities' produce which keeps them surviving. In return, these
communities have to make use of their current resources twice as much to provide for other
community’s needs. Products of every kind were exchanged, ranging from necessary ones such as crops,
cattle, poultry, others of kind, and clothing materials, up to metals, accessories, weapons, spices,
literature, and entertainment. They were able to find and create niches for interests. When they could
not sell products, they used their skills and got compensated for it—bringing forth a specialized group of
artisans. Humanity became more complex. The primary goal was not merely to survive, but to live the
good life. Technology has been instrumental in all of these because in searching for the good life people
were able to come up with creations that would make life easier, more comfortable, and more
enriching. Although the good life envisioned before might be pale in comparison to the multifariousness
of today, it offered us the initial intricacies of how today came to be. Such intricacies are also evident in
the machines created and causes endeavored by the people of long ago. They perceive death as, at the
very least, unpleasant and concocted potions to ward evil off from their kinsmen, often appealing to
their gods for blessings. Medicine was thus born, although it would take a considerably long time before
its part ways with potion. They became fixated with gold and were adamant in procuring more, trying to
use incantations with mixtures of substances to turn lead into one. This ultimately paved way for the
emergence of chemistry in its primitive form, not quite distinct from alchemy. Due to differing races,
belief, or abundance of resources and/or territory, wars were always being waged, leading communities
to allocate resources to the militia. Initially, the early leaders were those who portrayed exceptional
strength among their group—this condition carried on for generations. Physical strength was valued at
most, although there appeared to be as many intellectually gifted figures just the same. These
innovators were primarily the ones behind discoveries and triumphs of these civilizations.

Position-wise, the humans of today are much better off compared to humans several centuries
ago. Advancements in medicine, technology, health, and education ushered in humanity's best yet, and
show no sign of stopping. Below are some of the notable comparisons then and now:

1. Mortality Rate. Due to technology, lesser women and children die during birth, assuring robust
population and strong workforce. Medical care for premature infants allows them to survive and
develop normally, while proper maternal care ensures that mothers can fully recover and remain
empowered.

2. Average Lifespan. Aside from the reason that people engage less in combat and are less likely to die in
treatable diseases now as opposed to then, science is able to prolong lives by enhancing living status
and discovering different remedies to most diseases. Distribution of medicines is also made easier and
faster.

3. Literacy Rate. Access to education provided to more individuals generally creates a more informed
public that could determine a more just society.

4. Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Although not an indicator of an average person’s lifestyle in a certain
country, it is often used to determine the value of the country’s goods and services produced within the
territory given a certain time period. Higher country income is brought upon by high productivity, often
an indicator of presence of technology.
THE ESSENCE OF TECHNOLOGY

Humanity has indeed come a long way from our primitive ways, and as a general rule, it is
saidthat we are more "developed" than we were before. Above data are few indicators of the route that
we have come to take as species, and there are no signs of stopping. Modern humans are reliant on
technology in their search for the good life. We see ways and means from nature to utilize and achieve
growth—a goal that we believe would bring forth betterment. In retrospect, this view of technology
proves to be goal-oriented. It assumes that it is instrumental in achieving a goal in mind, that it is a
purposeful, deliberate craft humans steer in order to reach some greater good. In the advent of
postmodernism, however, the deterministic view appended to technology crumbled as people began to
question if anything is deterministic at all. Apart from its purpose, what is technology? Was the history
of technology brought purposeful choices for man in his search for the ultimate good? Some tried to
redefine technology away from its purpose. One philosopher by the name of Martin Heidegger argued
that its essence, or purpose, and being are different from each other. He was able to expound on this
point upon identifying that technology can either be perceived as first, a means to achieve man's end
and second, that which constitutes human activity. The second perspective paints technology in such a
way that each period reveals a particular character regarding man's being. A characteristic design, or
flaw, unfolds based on the repercussions brought upon by immersing ourselves with a piece of new
technology. In effect, through technology, a myriad of new questions begins to mount. Rather than
thinking that humans have a clear idea of what to expect in a good life, it can be stated that technology
allows humans to confront the unknown and see how they would react. This is not a good thing
altogether though, for technological revelation is but one of the many ways to perceive the world.
However, as long as humans are invested in growth and development, we cannot distance ourselves
from this perspective. In the name of growth, we view the world as a field of resources, vent on
attributing monetary value on seemingly prices entities. We begin to categorize nature as renewable
and nonrenewable instead of seeing it as it is. Humans are reduced into the amount of productivity they
are able to render during their lifetime, and our current mindset is geared toward which would utilize
our own skills. A good life is one which is practical in essence; a life which makes use of our labor and
which we of the get compensated fairly upon. It is no wonder that the sciences are one most sought
after courses, for the opportunities are plenty and the resources are bountiful. Since humans appear not
to really know what they are seeking for, the search continues. It is a looming fear, however, that the
path we are treading will not take us to the right direction, leading us in endless circles instead in our
pursuit of the good life. This is the danger presented by too much reliance on technology. Humans lose
track of things that matter, reducing their surroundings to their economic value. As this presents strong
backing by the sciences whose reverence is also brought upon by our deluded enchantment with
technology, it will prove to be a herculean task to distance ourselves from this perspective and consider
alternatives. After all, it was science and technology that gave us explanations, which worked for us and
benefited us. Rejecting a working, tried-and-tested process seems foolish, more so, knowing that there
are no options of equal value. It will be absurd to venture the dark and the unknown, but it should be
done in order for us to retrace our steps to be able to achieve the Good.

BACKTRACKING THE HUMAN CONDITION

 Technology's initial promises proved to be true, regardless of its ramifications. All in all, the
human condition improved, only if by improving we measure the level of comfort, various scientific
breakthroughs, and improved lifestyles of those who had the luxury to afford to do so. Different
machineries aid in prolonging lives—assisting those with disabilities, honing efficiency in industrial
workplaces, and even exploring the universe for places we can thrive once all the Earth's resources are
depleted. As to the initial aims, it appears that things really did not much differ. Some places in the
world are still battling for their daily survival—diseases, tribe wars, lack of habitable territories, and
competitions on resources are several factors contributing to such. People still wage wars on the basis of
races, belief, and abundance of resources and/or territory; except that now, they are able to inflict such
in a global scale. A lot of people still subscribe to religion in explaining things that they do not know. For
those who have ceased to do so, they have turned their worships to reverence of science. Whether
science or religion, these people are still bent on trying to make sense of the events happening in the
world on the basis of either of these two paradigms. They are still trying to discover and rediscover
things that would give meaning to their lives—whether it be honor, strength, or merit. People are still
trying to make sense of their existence in the world, and technology does little to aid them in their
pursuit of life's meaning. It seems that the human condition, although more sophisticated, is nothing but
a rehashed version of its former self. Nothing much has changed since then, and it appears that nothing
will change in the times to come if we fail to shift our view elsewhere. While it is true that technology
offered us one compelling notion of the truth and the good, we should be staunch in our resolve if we
want to know the real one. For starters, we might begin with considering other concepts, which
corresponds to the Good,such as Aristotle's conception of human flourishing. His notion entertains the
idea of holistic enrichment of a person situated in his society. A notable distinction on Aristotle's idea is
his subscription on evaluative

concepts called virtues and their role in achieving the good life. Technological advancements are
seemingly occurring in a rapid pace that our morality cannot quite keep up; no such consideration was
given in this approach in achieving the good life.

SUMMARY

Science and technology have been part of human activity since the beginning of our species. It
has aided us in survival and helped us outsmart our adversaries, provided us comfortable living, allowed
us to explore the world, and assisted us in discovering more about ourselves and the truth. However, it
also leads us to a paradox in which we are only able to see the world in the lenses of technological
innovations. In our pursuit of growth, we had conveniently forgotten that technology only presents one
approach in viewing the world. This forgetfulness leads US to evaluate objects as consumable or not—
transcending to other human beings, determining their capacity to be productive. Our valuation of
things became one-dimensional, geared toward production of goods for more consumption, which we
believe would lead us to the good life. This is only one conception of technology, as Heidegger also
proposed that technology is what humans do. Advancements in the field expose us to previously
unknown predicaments, effectively helping us to reveal our own natures and enforcing one perspective
in finding the truth. Now that it is acknowledged, we can try and divert our search to other approaches.