SINE'SKWELA

Science and technology concepts presented in an easily comprehensible and entertaining way through attractive visuals, catchy songs and graphics. Topics focus on plants, matter, astronomy, the human body, animals, the solar system, telecommunications and other scientific phenomena that children would love to discover.

Findings from all studies established Sien’skwela’s contribution to the science learning of young Filipino students.

Dr. Milagros Ibe’s 1995 independent study with the University of the Philippines-Institute of Science and Mathematics Education, among 2000 elementary science pupils from the National Capital Region concluded that:

• Pupils exposed to Sine’skwela regularly achieved higher scores (between 22-24%) in Science achievement tests from those who were not exposed to the show;
• Sine’skwela facilitated understanding of Science concepts;
• It also improved science process skills such as observing, relating, associating, ordering, explaining and interpreting; and
• The show also seemed to have enhanced the student’s reading ability and understanding of printed English.

A follow-up study also conducted by Dr. Ibe across 6 regions outside NCR validated these findings.
The most recent findings on the benefits of Sine’skwela came from an Evaluation Report of the Department of Education’s World Bank funded project, the Third Elementary Education Project or TEEP. The evaluation entitled “Summary Report on the Review of Educational Video Tapes on Science (Sine’skwela)” released in May 2002, said that, “the episodes are very educational…As an aid to instruction, the learners will gain more knowledge on science and health content. Language use is within the knowledge of elementary pupils. Even out of school children will benefit from these educational TV lessons. Even parents will surely enjoy watching the different episodes with their children. The viewers will have interest to research on additional information in order to enrich their knowledge… Are good motivation for them to develop the science skills and attitudes necessary for science learning. The material is consistent with Dep-Ed – BEC for the subject and grade level it was intended. Concepts developed contribute to enrichment, reinforcement or mastery of the identified objectives. Information is accurate and up to date. The manner of presentation is suitable for target viewers/listeners.”
Studies clearly indicate that Sine’skwela, when used as an instructional supplement, effects better learning in Science than regular classroom instruction alone.