Ph.D. in SCIENCE EDUCATION with specialization in:
Biology (DSEDBIO), Chemistry (DSEDCHE), Mathematics (DSEDMAT) or Physics (DSEDPHY)
The Ph.D. in Science Education degree program aims to prepare students to obtain leadership positions in science education as supervisors, teacher educators, and faculty members in colleges and universities. The program requires a minimum of 66 course units, with any of the four areas (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics) as field of specialization. The students are engaged in a broad range of experiences that provide a balanced, extensive, and personalized form of professional development. Moreover, the program is geared towards student development of expertise in key domains, which make up the knowledge base in science education, including deep and conceptual understandings of the disciplines of science, thoughtful exploration of the core science education areas of study, proficiencies in the professional education areas of study, educational research, and technology. The courses are designed to support students in developing robust understandings of science and mathematics content knowledge, contemporary educational scholarship and research, and the demands of educational settings and policies. The program offers a unique setting for the construction of productive, comprehensive knowledge in the diverse field of science education, thus playing a vital role in the preparation of global science educators. The proficient roster of faculty members from the Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education handles the pedagogical aspect of the program while the specialists from the College of Science teach the specialization courses.
PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
Graduates of PhD in Science Education are expected to possess the following Lasallian attributes, namely:
ELGA 1: Critical and Creative Thinker
- display mastery of the methods, theories, and empirical studies in the field of Biology/Chemistry/Physics/ Mathematics education.
- develop innovative and relevant learning materials that will address the needs of the 21st century lifelong science and mathematics learners in a variety of settings.
- show competence and creativity in teaching Biology/Chemistry/Physics/ Mathematics at the university level.
- develop and validate an innovative assessment instrument that measures a relevant science/mathematics teaching/learning construct accurately.
ELGA 2: Effective Communicator
- conduct independent and original dissertation research in the field of Biology/Chemistry/Physics/ Mathematics education.
- communicate educational research to both science /mathematics education researchers and practitioners through research publication and/or presentation.
ELGA 3: Reflective Lifelong Learner
- manage a research study or project in the field of Biology/Chemistry/ Physics/Mathematics education
- apply educational research methodologies to solve current educational issues and problems in Biology/Chemistry/Physics/ Mathematics education.
ELGA 4: Service-Driven Citizen
- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of ethical standards in executing educational research in Biology/Chemistry/ Physics/Mathematics education.
- design and manage a service learning project for Science and Mathematics teachers in the Basic Education level.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
1. Master鈥檚 degree (thesis track) major in science education, mathematics education, or related program
2. Grade-point average of at least 2.5 (B) in the master鈥檚 program
3. Successful interview with the department chair
Note: Successful applicants with non-thesis master鈥檚 degree are required to enroll in master鈥檚 thesis writing prior to enrollment in the doctoral course works.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
| Core/Fundamental Courses | 24 units |
| Major Courses | 24 units |
| Cognates/Electives | 听6 units |
| Written Comprehensive Examination | 听0 units |
| Candidacy Examination/ Proposal Defense | 听0 units |
| Dissertation Writing | 12 units |
| Total | 66 units |
Written Comprehensive Examination
The WCE is a final check on the student鈥檚 competency in both pedagogy and his/her field of specialization. The WCE has two parts: the pedagogical knowledge and the content knowledge.
Candidacy Examination/Proposal Defense
This is an oral examination for PhD students who have successfully passed the written comprehensive examination prior to enrollment in Dissertation Writing. The student is expected to present the Integrative Paper that incorporates the outputs from Independent Study 1 (SCE921D) and Independent Study 2 (SCE922D). The integrative paper should elucidate the essential components of the dissertation plan including; the theoretical/conceptual framework of the study and the research methodology (sampling, instrumentation, data-gathering and data analysis).
Research Publication
The student must have at least 1 research publication in an international or national refereed and indexed journal within their residency in the program.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Core/Fundamental Courses (24 units)
Advanced Educational Statistics 1听听(SCE501D)
3 units听
This course is a three unit, PhD level university experience designed to take the student beyond the introductory level in statistics for education and the behavioral sciences. The theory and application of a wide range of univariate and multivariate procedures, sundry nonparametric tests, correlational approaches, and single-subject designs are included in this course. Research issues such as the multivariate distribution, power and effect size determination, correlation as a research methodology, and factor analysis are also included. Students are required to conduct both hand and computer calculation of most procedures, with the most esoteric requiring computer work only. Though theory is taught, an applied approach is taken to most problems thereby providing a practical and useful store of statistical resources.
Advanced Educational Statistics 2听 (SCE502D)
3 units听
This course is a continuation of SCE501D, which basically covers advanced multiple regression analysis, statistical analysis using structural equation methods, applied multivariate analysis and hierarchical linear modeling in educational research. In this course, the general linear model (GLM) will be used as a context for regression. Matrix algebra, multiple regression, path analysis, polynomial regression, standardized regression, stepwise solutions, analysis of variance, weighted least squares, and logistic regression are considered. The course also involves understanding quantitative techniques using manifest and latent variable approaches for analysis of educational and social science data. Introduction to structural equation modeling approaches to multiple regression, factor analysis, and path modeling. Developing, estimating, and interpreting structural equation models will also be discussed. Further, the use and/or interpretation of results from several multivariate statistical techniques will be considered.
Advanced Methods of Research and Research Design (SCE526D)
3 units听
This course is core course in which students will explore the major empirical methodological research approaches to studying different types of problems in the discipline of science education. The students will read on core readings on selected methodological approaches, critically analyze the components of each methodological approach, and apply their knowledge about these methodological approaches in developing a research proposal on a research problem in science education.
Advanced Test and Measurement (SCE564D)
3 units听
It covers the planning and designing of appropriate tests to assess learning and skills gained in science/math instruction. The principles and processes involved in test constructions from conceptualization to gathering of evidences of its reliability and validity will be considered. Alternative assessment tools and practices will also be considered in keeping with the current trends in classroom evaluation in science and mathematics education.
Seminar in Dissertation Writing (SCE905D)
3 units听
This course intends to develop student鈥檚 understanding of the rigors and skills involved in the process of writing their dissertation. This course likewise aims to provide the students with the opportunity to write a 鈥渟tate of the art鈥� paper related to their dissertation topic and to draft a proposal for their intended dissertation.
Philosophical and Psychological Theories of Learning (SCE535D)
3 units听
It intends to familiarize the students with ongoing programs that reflect current philosophies of learning and teaching that were found to be effective. This course likewise intends to provide the students with the opportunity to write a paper on the application of these current theories of learning and teaching to classroom instruction.
Philosophical and Scientific Basis for Trends and Research in Science Education (SCE528D)
3 units听
This course focuses on the philosophical and scientific basis for trends and research in science education. This course entails an analysis of past and current researches relative to science and mathematics education, particularly on the applicability to Philippine conditions. A thorough description and evaluation of relevant research-based findings are included. The course provides the student an opportunity to write a state-of-the-art paper on the application of the principles and theories on research to the formulation of the theoretical framework of their proposed dissertation research plan.
Philosophical Foundations of Science Curriculum (SCE590D)
3 units听
This course covers the basic concepts and principles about the nature and scope of curriculum as a field of study 鈥� its planning, development, implementation and evaluation. The focus is on related emerging curriculum issues and trends along the context of science/mathematics education in both national and global contexts.
Major Courses (24 units)
Independent Study 1 (SCE921D)
3 units听
This course intends to provide PhD students the opportunity to thoroughly review the literature related to their dissertation plan. Working independently and with the expert guidance from the professor, the students are expected to conduct desk-based research using library and internet-based resources that will serve as references upon which they will develop the meta-analysis paper. The paper must explicitly integrate the relevant theories and empirical studies that will serve as the basis for the framework of their dissertation proposal.
Independent Study 2 (SCE922D)
3 units听
This course is a continuation of SCE921D, which is primarily focused on the development of instruments that will be used for data gathering and analysis. Using the conceptual and/or theoretical framework developed in the previous course, students are expected to develop and validate the research instruments needed for their dissertation research plan. Moreover, measures of reliability (颈.别.听Cronbach alpha, split-half, etc.) and validity will have to be determined. Students are also expected to write a research report on the development and validation of the instrument/s, which should be presented in a colloquium or conference.
The student enrolls in SCE921D and SCE922D half-way or towards the end of the program.
BIOLOGY
Cell Biology (BIO609D/S)听
3 units听
This is a course that discusses the structure and functions of the different components of the cell at the molecular level.听 It also deals with the interaction among cells.
Advanced Ecology (BIO601D/S)
2 units听
This is a course which will build a foundation of knowledge in basic and applied ecology. It will provide a preview of the basic concepts in ecology and will emphasize on the applications of ecological principles to environmental issues. It will encompass topics on the physical environment, populations, communities, ecosystems to the global landscape scale, underpinned with concepts of inter-relationships, regulatory mechanisms and evolution. It will include lectures, discussions of case studies, computer sessions, fieldwork and library research which will integrate the theoretical and practical framework of ecology.
Advanced Ecology Lab (BIO600D/S)
1 unit听
This course will provide the practical framework of ecology.听 It will offer the venue for students to apply knowledge and develop skills in the investigation of basic and applied ecological problems. It will include computer sessions, fieldwork and library research which will integrate the theoretical and practical aspects of ecology.
Advanced Genetics (BIO603D/S)
2 units听
The course provides an in-depth study of the structure and function of the gene.听 It updates the students on the current trends and approaches in the study of genetics from the molecular to population genetics.
Advanced Genetics Lab (BIO602D/S)
1 unit听
The course provides students a hand-on experience in studying various investigative approaches in genetics.
Advanced Physiology (BIO605D)
2 units听
This course deals with the dynamic processes of growth and metabolism in living plants. In particular, discussions will focus on processes and component interactions at different levels of organization that enable plants to carry out its functions, the responses of plants to changes in the environment and the accompanying growth and development.听 The course also deals with the principles and mechanisms of vertebrate physiology with emphasis on human systems.
Advanced Physiology Laboratory (BIO604D)听
1 unit听
The course deals with some techniques used in physiological research and on some factors and processes affecting certain aspects of plant growth and development.听 It also covers principles and mechanisms of vertebrate physiology.
Advanced Systematics Lecture (BIO607D)听听
2 units
This covers principles of classification and phylogeny reconstruction
Advanced Systematics Laboratory (BIO606D)听听
1 unit听
This is a course that deals with taxonomic methods and techniques of phylogeny reconstruction.
Advanced Molecular Biology Lecture (BIO611D)听
2 units听
This is a course that deals with basic principles and techniques of molecular biology and its applications in biotechnology. It deals with the structure and quantitative analysis.听 It introduces the basic concepts of plant, animal, and microbial biotechnology. It also trains the students in all biosafety aspects.
Advanced Molecular Biology Laboratory (BIO610D)听听
1 unit听
This course is designed to introduce the practical aspects of basic molecular biology methods.听 It gives a hands-on experience to the students in performing the basic techniques of molecular biology, such as isolation and analysis of macromolecules and their properties, qualitative and quantitative analysis of major macromolecules (nucleic acids and proteins), as well as techniques of handling DNA vectors and bacterial cultures for transformation.听 It also trains the students in all biosafety aspects.
CHEMISTRY
Organic Reactions and Mechanisms (CHM643P)听
3 units听
An intensive review of selected organic chemical reactions and mechanisms emphasizing the experimental approach.
Organic Reactions Laboratory (CHM644P)听
2 units听
A laboratory course covering the application of concepts and theories discussed in organic synthesis lecture. Techniques such as monitoring of reactions, proper handling of toxic and air sensitive compounds, and determining correct reaction set-up are also included.
Spectroscopic Methods in Organic Chemistry (CHM743P)听
3 units听
A course dealing with the application of spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, IR, MS, NMR) in the structure of elucidation of organic compounds. Two dimensional NMR techniques are emphasized.
Structural Concepts in Inorganic Chemistry (CHM603P)听
3 units听
This course introduces the quantitative basis of group theory and the use of symmetry in chemistry. It includes the chemical applications of group theory in areas such as spectroscopy and bonding. It also deals with atomic theory, structure and symmetry, bonding theories, acid-base chemistry and chemical forces in inorganic compounds. Coordination compounds, organometallics, cage/cluster compounds, and bio-organic systems are likewise presented from the viewpoint of their structure and bonding.
Advanced Analytical Techniques in Chemistry Lecture (CHM621P)听
3 units听
A course dealing with the principles and instrumentation in spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, hyphenated techniques, thermal analytic methods, and voltammetry.
Advanced Analytical Techniques in Chemistry Laboratory (CHM622P)听
1 units听
A laboratory course covering instrumental analytical applications of absorption and emission spectroscopy, chromatography, and voltametric methods in determining important physicochemical data.
Advanced Biochemistry (CHM683D)听
3 units听
A study of the structure and function of biomolecules, biochemical pathways, and signal
transduction.
MATHEMATICS
Set Theory and Logic (MTH601P)听
3 units听
This course demonstrates the development of mathematical thought through basic logical structures and the concepts of classes and sets, functions, relations, partially ordered classes, axiom of choice and transfinite numbers.
Number Theory (MTH621P)听
3 units听
A course on the divisibility properties of integers, congruences, diophantine equations, quadratic reciprocity, arithmetic functions and algebraic numbers.
Abstract Algebra 1 (MTH611P)听
3 units听
The study of groups, group homomorphisms,听 Cayley鈥檚 theorem, Lagrange theorem, permutation groups and Sylow theorems.
Advanced Linear Algebra 1 (MTH613P)听
3 units听
A course on matrices, vector spaces, linear transformations, eigenvalues, linear functionals,
bilinear forms, and quadratic forms.
Modern Complex Analysis 1 (MTH643P)听
3 units听
A course on complex numbers and complex lane, Cauchy-Reimann equations, Riemann surface and conformal mappings, infinite series, complex integration, Cauchy integral theory, singularities and residue theory.
Real Analysis 1 (MTH641P)听
3 units听
A course on calculus on Euclidean spaces, Lebesgue measure and integration, function spaces, and Stone Weierstrass theorem.
PHYSICS
Classical Mechanics I (PHY601D)听
3 units听
Introduction to dynamic systems, Hamiltonian dynamics, variational principles, canonical
transformations, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, classical permutation theory, advanced linear dynamics, and classical field theory.
Classical Electrodynamics I (PHY605D)听
3 units听
The microscopic Maxwell equations; electrostatics in vacuum and in dielectrics; stationary currents and magnetostatics; conservation theorems for the electromagnetic field; plane electromagnetic waves; wave guide and resonant cavities.
Quantum Mechanics I (PHY609D)听
3 units听
Linear vector spaces representation theory; general formulations; simple quantum mechanical systems; quantum dynamics; and path integral methods.
Quantum Mechanics II (PHY611D)听
3 units听
Symmetries; stationary-state perturbation theory; time-dependent perturbation theory; and collision theory.
Prerequisite : Quantum Mechanics I
Fundamental Statistics and Statistical Mechanics I (PHY619D)听
3 units听
Thermodynamics of phase transitions; the Ginzburg-Landau theory; critical exponents; review of probability theory; master equation; the Fokker-Plank equation; random walk and the diffusion equations; probability density and Liouville’s equation, ergodic theory, mixing flow; equilibrium statistical mechanics; equilibrium statistical mechanics; equilibrium, fluctuations and critical exponents.
Solid State Physics I (PHY625D)听
3 units听
Fundamentals principles of the physics of solid. Topics include periodic structure, lattice waves, electron states, static properties of solids, electron-electron interaction, dynamics of electron in solids.
Prerequisites : Classical Mechanics I, Classical Electrodynamics I, and Statistical Mechanics I
Cognate/Elective听Courses (6 units)
Advanced Topics in Teaching and Learning 1: Integration of Technology in Teaching Science and Math (SCE536D)
3 units
It explores operations and concepts of technology to enhance personal and professional growth and productivity, and deals primarily with the integration of technology into classroom planning, instruction, and assessment. Students will develop a conceptual framework for using educational technology, analyze strategies for integrating technology into science and mathematics educational contexts and evaluate its potential for the improvement of teaching and learning. This project-based course is taught through a combination of lecture, discussion, demonstration and hands-on practice.
Advanced Topics in Teaching and Learning 2: Action Research for Reflective Practice and Continuous Improvement (SCE538D)
3 units
This elective course is offered to PhD students. It principally involves understanding Action Research as applied in education and developing an Action Plan and conducting research about it. The course includes a discussion of the different methods of data gathering and of conducting research using the reflective and iterative processes. The course also enables the practices of reflection, critical thinking and the application of skills required of teacher researchers, such as conducting and managing research projects, using varied techniques in analyzing qualitative data and using appropriate Statistics to analyze quantitative data. Emphasis is given to the PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) model.
Game-Based Learning (SCE558D)
3 units听
A growing number of meta-analytic reviews of studies involving games for learning (G4L) are confirming the potential of video games to support the teaching-learning process. This introductory course to game-based learning (GBL) will enable the student to examine theories of GBL and principles in the design of G4L, and design a small game that embodies a coherent subset of these theories and principles.
Advanced Microbiology Lecture (BIO631D)听听
2 units听
The course involves the study of the anatomy, physiology, and genetics of microorganisms, in particular, those of typical and atypical bacteria.
Advanced Microbiology Laboratory (BIO632D)听听
2 units听
The course covers the laboratory techniques in microbiology pertinent to the study of the physiology and identification of microorganisms.听 Advances in the diagnosis and control of microbial infections will also be discussed. Hand-on activities that emphasize the economic importance of selected bacteria and fungi will also be performed.
Quantum Chemistry 1 (CHM661P)听
3 units听
A study of the postulates of quantum mechanics as applied to simple systems and hydrogen-like systems. The course includes group theory and discussions of selected approximation methods for many electron systems.
Combinatorial Geometry (MTH665P)听
3 units听
This course provides an introduction to linear spaces, projective spaces, affine spaces, polar spaces and generalized quadrangles.
General Topology 1 (MTH663P)听
3 units听
A study of basic topological concepts such as sets, metric spaces, topological spaces, continuous mappings, compactness, connectedness, separability and topological properties.
Other courses offered by the College of Science department for Ph.D. program
Dissertation Writing (12 units)
Dissertation Writing 1 (SCE951P)
6 units
Dissertation Writing 2 (SCE952P)
6 units
Dissertation Writing 3 thru 15 (SCE953P thru SCE965P)
0 units