Teacher-Researchers from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) showcased their groundbreaking studies at the 11th International Conference on Teacher Education (ICTED), held November 13-15, 2024, at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. Centered on the theme “Preparing Teachers for Education 5.0 Toward Sustainable Futures: Thrusts, Challenges, and Praxis,” the conference highlighted innovative approaches to leveraging technology for sustainable, inclusive learning environments.

ISUFST researchers presented studies that underscored the university’s dedication to advancing educational practices. Dr. Ronilo Aponte, together with advisees Hannah Marie Failanza and Camila De los Reyes, explored how game-based learning enhances students’ understanding of mitosis through their study, “Four Games, One exCELLent Goal: Investigating the Effectiveness of Game-Based Learning on Learners’ Understanding and Experiences in Mitosis.” The research demonstrated the potential of interactive learning in improving educational outcomes.

Dr. Shiela May Labajo’s presentation, “Family Reading Practices and Parents’ Involvement on Learners’ Reading Performance in English,” emphasized the vital role of family reading habits and parental involvement in boosting students’ literacy skills. Meanwhile, Michle Celeste introduced photovoice as a reflective tool in her study, “Lens on the Classroom: Photovoice as a Reflective Tool for Pre-Service Teachers’ Narrative Writing,” showcasing its effectiveness in enabling pre-service teachers to document and reflect on their classroom experiences.

Adding to ISUFST’s presence, John Mark P. Burila, a faculty member from the Main Tiwi Site and a PhD Education student at UP Diliman, served as a facilitator in the Program Committee, working with local organizers from UP Visayas. Burila reflected on the significance of the conference, noting that it underscored the need for educators to integrate technology with purpose, equity, and sustainability, ensuring that learning remains meaningful in an ever-changing world.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., commended the researchers for their contributions to the conference, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering a research-driven academic culture. Dr. Siason highlighted that the achievements of ISUFST’s faculty and researchers reflect the institution’s dedication to realizing its vision of becoming “a leading and empowering research university in fisheries, agriculture, education, and technology in Southeast Asia by 2030.” He noted that participation in international platforms such as ICTED affirms the university’s role in shaping innovative and inclusive education.

The ICTED conference, organized by the University of the Philippines College of Education, brought together educators, policymakers, and researchers to discuss the integration of technology, socio-economic challenges, and cultural diversity in education. This year’s conference explored critical themes such as Artificial Intelligence, STEM, inclusive education, and teacher development, offering actionable insights into preparing educators for Education 5.0.

The participation of ISUFST in ICTED 2024 underscores its commitment to advancing educational research and innovation while promoting its guiding principles of Integrity, Social Justice, Discipline, and Academic Excellence. The event also reaffirmed the shared responsibility of educators to foster sustainable futures through meaningful and inclusive education practices. (Photos by JM Burila/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)