Physics in action: A case study of teaching practices and indigenous knowledge systems and practices (IKSP) of the Obo Monuvu tribe

Date of Publication

9-2019

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Teaching Major in Physics

Subject Categories

Physics | Science and Mathematics Education

College

Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education

Department/Unit

Science Education

Thesis Adviser

Voltaire M. Mistades

Defense Panel Chair

Lydia S. Roleda

Defense Panel Member

Bee Ching Ong Kian Kok
Selina P. Sarmiento

Abstract/Summary

Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP) are often considered inferior (ECIP, 2008) and do not have scientific significance. Scholars point this way of thinking as one of the reasons why Indigenous Peoples (IP) are slowly losing their culture. Others argue that it has embedded scientific principles that needs to be identified and used in teaching. The idea of using IKSP, or culture in general, is not new in literature. One specific theory that reflects this idea is the Culturally Relevant Science Teaching (CRST).

This study was conceptualized on the belief that the Obo Monuvu tribe practices science, specifically Physics, and they should be taught within the context of CRST. Thus, the main goal of this study was to document how the indigenous community applies Physics concepts in their everyday life. Specifically, it documented the teaching practices of Grade 8 Physics teachers and the IKSP of the indigenous community with embedded Force, Motion and Energy concepts. This was conducted among the Obo Monuvu tribe of Sitio Puas Inda, Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City, North Cotabato. It employed qualitative case study as its research design and observation, interview, focus group discussion (FGD), and archiving as its data gathering procedure.

Results of this study show that Physics concepts are evident in the daily activities and IKSP of the Obo Monuvu tribe. Students also demonstrate practical knowledge and understanding of Physics as evident in their way of explaining some of their IKSP. However, inside the classroom indigenous students are taught to use Physics concepts in a limited way. Furthermore, the documented Physics teaching practices would suggest that teaching Physics should be varied, contextualized and sensitive of students’ culture which fits the academic excellence and cultural competence criteria of CRST. This study suggests on integrating IKSP in curriculum and instruction.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG008265

Keywords

Physics—Study and teaching--Philippines; Ethnoscience--Philippines

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4-29-2025

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