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CHAIRMAN SPEECH
The Science Teachers Association (STAS) was founded in November 1965 by a group of enthusiastic science teachers. Times have changed drastically since then. These include changes in demography, developments in information technology, new thinking on pedagogy and even new institutional or organisational policy which challenges the concept that teaching and learning need to be confined to the four walls. These are radically altering the concept of what it means to be a student, to learn, to teach and to be a teacher.
STAS’ fundamental objectives have however remained unchanged.
That is
(a) to promote the advancement of Science Education; and
(b) foster educational, professional, social and cultural interest among its members
Quality science education cannot be just rote learning. Four specific beacons characterise the promotion of advancement of science education.
- The leader of inquiry
The teacher is the leader of inquiry and the student the inquirer in science learning. Highly experienced and qualified teachers have the means and the skills to motivate, engage and inspire the science student inquirer. The teacher is key to quality education. It is STAS’ belief and philosophy that as an organisation, the teacher is centre to our existence and continuous success.
- The skilful teacher
The skilful teacher strives and excels when there is individual and professional support. STAS can and must provide the platform to foster educational, professional, social and cultural interest among science teachers. Skills are shared and interactions appreciated more greatly when professionals come together. STAS can and will continue to play a supportive role for the science fraternity supported by Academy of Singapore Teachers, CPDD, Science Centre Singapore and other educational organisations.
- The lifelong learner
In promoting the advancement of science education STAS need to provide and support the science teacher as a lifelong learner by facilitating training in various forms and streams. These can include learning journeys to other countries to share and learn from science counterparts, eLearning, forums, discussions, conferences, forming learning communities, distance learning and conducting action research.
- The resource-full teacher
Good learning materials or resources facilitate the learning process especially necessary in the teaching and learning of science. STAS has and will continue to provide publications or awards where teachers contribute their innovative approaches in teaching and learning.
The inaugural Science Teachers Conference 2010 provides an excellent platform for science teachers to learn from one another. It is heartening to note that the conference was oversubscribed. Teachers are excited and willing to share their stories of success as well as the mistakes they make along the way to successful teaching. We are indeed very privileged to have the support of the Academy of Singapore Teachers, CPDD, SNAS and Science Centre Singapore. Without their support this conference would not have been possible. Thank you.
I wish all participants, presenters, prize winners an energising and invigorating time at the 2-day conference. Continue to join us in the STAS activities coming your way. Check our website at www.STAS.com.sg for updates.
Thank you
Mrs Nora Teo
Chairman
Science Teachers Association of Singapore
UPCOMING EVENT
Science Teachers' Conference Details: Venue: STAS & Singapore Science Centre is organising an inaugural Science Teachers' Conference this year. Thank you for your support. The conference is fully subscribed. The registration is now closed. |
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