GEC108 Science, Technology and Society - Chapter 01

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MODULE

Suggested time allotment: 18 hours

LESSON 1 Historical Antecedents which Changed the Course of Science and Technology

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this lesson, the learner should be able to:
• Trace the historical development of science and technology in the world: Ancient,
Middle and Modern Ages and in the Philippines; and
• Demonstrate appreciation for the developments in science and technology.

Introduction
It is a well-established fact that science and technology impacts all aspects of our lives.
Science and technology is associated in all means with modernity and is considered as an
essential for rapid development. The state of science and technology determines the socio-
economic progress of a country. A country who is not able to implement science and
technology would not progress and reap the benefits of development.

A. History of Science and Technology in the Word: Ancient, Middle and Modern Ages
Science and technology has been around from the beginning of time. It evolves from
the everyday efforts of the people trying to improve their way of living. Throughout history,
humankind and utilized tools, machines, and techniques without understanding how or why
they worked or comprehending their physical or chemical composition.
Science and technology can be traced from the origin of human life 2 million years ago
and each era has significant advancement. The earliest form of Science and technology were
human artifacts found during prehistoric time about 2.3 million years ag0. They were roughly
shaped stones used for chopping and scraping, found primarily in Eastern Africa. Some of the
earliest record of science came from Mesopotamian cultures around 400 B.C., disease
symptoms, chemical substances and astronomical observations were some or the evidence of
emerging science.
During the same period in the Nile valley of Egypt, information on the treatment of
wounds and diseases and even some or the mathematical calculations such as angles,
rectangles, and triangles and the volume of the portion of a pyramid have been around tor
thousands of years. From 300 to 400 B.C. there was a rise in the number of philosophers who
wrote topics on psychology, biology, and a host of other topics. There was Euclid, the founder
of modern geometry, Archimedes, the founder of engineering mechanics and calculated a value
for pi which is still used to this very day.
3000 B.C. gave rise to the Bronze Age in the search tor finding pigments used to color
the human skin, copper was discovered, then it was realized that alloying copper with tin
resulted into bronze which in those days were used to make swords and other weapons. Today,
we use it to build machinery, medals, statues, belts and shoe buckles.
By 3500 B.C. in Mesopotamia, two-wheeled carts had been created and it became the
most frequently used mode of transporting heavy goods from one place to another.
Urbanization is the development of large city, and the first city popped around 3000
B.C. In Egypt during this same time, the first pyramid was built. Pyramids are undoubtedly the
most outstanding development in science and technology and are still a marvel up to the
present.
During the Middle Ages (450 1450 A.D.) gave birth to many scientific and
technological development. Also during the Middle Ages (often called Dark Ages), warfare
had improved tremendously.
The Renaissance Era in Europe that began in 1450 and lasted until 1600 A.D. was the
period known as rebirth of knowledge. In Germany, Gutenberg developed the printing press
which resulted in books being printed instead of huge volume of texts being handwritten. In
Italy, Leonardo da Vinci, a great pioneer in Arts, architecture, engineering and science, stressed
the importance of experiment. He produced a vast series of notebooks with observations on
anatomy, cloud formations, plans for sites, military inventions, tanks, flying machines and
submarines.
Copernicus rediscovered what some of the ancient Greeks had known that the sun was
at the center of the solar system and that the earth revolves around it. The era also gave way to
geographic discovery beginning with the invention of the triangle sail and the magnetic
compass. This aided Prince Henry, the navigator, to travel around South Africa, Portugal, to
reach India. It was around the same time Columbus discovered the Americas.

Modern Science and Technology around 1600 A.D.


Galileo was the first to use modern scientific methods based on experiment and testable
observations. In 1608, some spectacle maker me to the Republic of Venice where Galileo was
staying with a spyglass tor identifying Ships well before they enter a harbor. Galileo heard
about it and promptly set about figuring how it worked. He not only succeeded in constructing
his own spyglass, but went on to build a second one with the magnification stepped up by eight,
and finally thirty times which is now known as the telescope. He was able to discover craters
and mountains on the moon. He later invented the microscope and the thermometer.
Isaac Newton was born in 1642. He helped define the laws of gravity and planetary
motion, co-founded calculus, and explained the laws of light and color. Albert Einstein became
the most famous scientist of the 20 century. His work had profound impact on everything from
quantum theory to nuclear power and the atom bomb, and came up als0 with the famous
equation e = mc2 used in Calculus.
In terms of modern technology, the Industrial Revolution brought about the beginning
of factories being built to produce goods at massive quantity.
In the late 1800, the light bulb began to replace candles and oil lamps. The 20th century
gave birth to the radio, the first car to run with engine power. The first man went to space in a
rocket. It was also the beginning or communication, electronic and computer era.

B. Science and Technology in the Philippines: A Historical Perspective


Philippine science and technology has a long history. It started before Spain colonized
the country where some indigenous technology already existed with regards to wet rice and dry
rice agriculture. The use of technology was also evident in the handicrafts, pottery, weaving,
metal ware and boats used by ancient Filipinos. The natives were already aware of the
medicinal and therapeutic properties of plants and the methods of extracting medicine from
herbs. They had an alphabet, a system of writing, a method of counting weights and measure.
They had no calendar but counted the years by the period of the moon and from one harvest to
another. Filipinos were already engaged in farming. Ship building, mining and weaving. The
Banaue Rice Terraces is a sophisticated product of engineering by pre-Spanish Filipinos.

Spanish Colonial Period


The colonization of the Philippines contributed to the growth of science and technology
in the archipelago. The Spaniards introduced formal education and founded scientific
institutions. During the early years or Spanish rule in the Philippines, Parish schools were
established where religion, reading, writing, arithmetic and music was taught. Sanitation and
more advanced methods of agriculture were taught to the natives. Later the Spaniards
established colleges and universities in the archipelago including University of Santo Tomas.
The study of medicine in the Philippines was given priority. In 1871, the school of
medicine and pharmacy was opened at the University of Santo Tomas. It also contributed to
the field of engineering in the islands by constructing government buildings, churches, roads,
bridges and forts.
The Jesuits promoted meteorological studies and founded the Manila Observatory at
the Ateneo Municipal de Manila in 1865.

American Period and Post Commonwealth Era


The progress of science and technology continued under American rule. On July 1,
1901, the Philippine Commission established the Bureau of Government Laboratories which
was placed under the Department of Interior. The Bureau replaced the Laboratorio Municipal
which was established during the Spanish era. On October 26, 1905, the Bureau or Government
Laboratories was replaced by the Bureau of Science. The Bureau dealt with the study of tropical
diseases. With the progress of science and technology, on December 8, 1933, the National
Research Council of the Philippines was recognized. The Bureau of Science became the
primary research center or the Philippines until World War II.
Science during the American period was inclined towards agriculture, food processing,
forestry, medicine, and pharmacy. Not much focus was given on the development of industrial
technology due to free trade policy with the United States which nurtured an economy geared
towards agriculture and trade.
In 1946 the Bureau of Science was replaced by the Institute of Science In 1958, during
the regime of President Carlos P. Garcia, the Philippine Congress passed the Science Act of
1958 which established the National Science Development Board.

Marcos Era and Martial Law


Science was given importance during the Marcos Regime. In the amended 1973
Philippine Constitution, Article XV, Section 9 (1), he declared that the "advancement of
science and technology shall have priority in national “Development”. In his two terms of
presidency and during Martial Law, many laws were enacted promoting science and
technology.
On January 23, 1967, he declared that science was necessary for the development
programs, and thus, directed the Department of Education to revitalize the science courses in
public high schools. DepEd and the National Science Development Board (NSDB) organized
a project to provide selected high schools with science teaching equipment over a four-year
perio0d.
In 1968 technology was recognized as the leading factor in economic development and
thus additional funds were channeled to support projects in applied Sciences and science
education. A big part of the war damage funds was allocated to fund private universities and
encourage them to pursue programs in science, technology and research. Seminars were also
conducted or public and private high School and college science teachers. Training programs
and scholarships were awarded to graduate and undergraduate science scholars.
The National Science Development Board established the Philippine Atomic Energy
Commission to explore the uses of atomic energy for economic development. Marcos assisted
107 Institutions in undertaking nuclear energy Work by sending scientists, engineers, doctors
and technicians to study nuclear science and technology abroad.
Major development projects to reform education were done and which included
research and development, establishment of technical institutes, Science education centers, and
agricultural colleges and vocational high Schools. The Philippine Council for Agricultural
Research was also established to support the progressive development of agriculture, forestry,
and fisheries for the country. The Council was attached to the Department of Agriculture and
Natural Resources for administrative purposes.
Another agency was established by Presidential Decree No. 49, s. 1972 and this is the
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) under the
Department of National Defense. Its function was to provide environmental protection and to
utilize scientific knowledge to ensure the safety of the people.
The Philippine National Oil Company was als0 created to promote industrial and
economic development through effective and efficient use of energy sources (PD. No. 334, s.
1973).
In 1976, the National Academy of Science and Technology was established and was
composed of scientists with "innovative achievement in the basic and applied sciences to serve
as a reservoir of scientific and technological expertise for the country.
In 1979, the government funded scientific research conducted by National Science
Development Board (NSDB), the Philippine Council for Agricultural Research and Resources,
the Plant Breeding Institute, the International Rice Research Institute, the Bureau of Plant
Industry, and the Bureau of Forest Products.
The National Committee on Geological Sciences was created in 1980 to advise
government and private entities on matters pertaining to geological sciences (Executive Order
No. 625, s. 1980).
By virtue of Executive Order No. 784, s. 1982, the National Science Development
Board and its support agencies was reorganized and was named National Science and
Technology Authority (NS TA) to provide central direction and coordination of scientific and
technological research and development.
The Mindanao and Visayas campuses of the Philippine Science High School were
established in 1986 to encourage careers in science and technology and to be more accessible
to the talented students in the Mindanao and Visayas areas in accordance with Executive Order
No. 1090, s. 1986.

Fifth Republic
During Corazon Aquino's presidency, the National Science and Technology Authority
was replaced by the Department of Science and Technology, giving the department a
representation in the cabinet. Under the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan for the
years 1987-1992, science and technology's role in economic recovery and sustained economic
growth was highlighted. Science and technology was one of the three priorities of the
government towards an economic recovery.
The first Science and Technology Master Plan or STMP was formulated on August 8,
1988. Its goal was for the Philippines to achieve newly industrialized country status for the
year 2000.
During President Corazon Aquino's term, she encouraged scientists and inventors to
bring the Philippines to its former position as second to Japan in Science and technology and
to achieve the status as an industrialized country in 2000.
R.A. 6655 or the Free Public Secondary Education Act of 1988 opened free education
at the secondary level. Together with this was implemented the “Science for the Masses
Program” which aimed at scientific and technological literacy among Filipinos.

President Fidel V. Ramos' Term


There were noticeable improvements regarding science and technology during
President Fidel V. Ramos term. There was a significant increase in personnel specializing in
science and technology. In 1988, the Philippines was estimated to have around 3,000 competent
scientists and engineers
During the Ramos administration, the Department of Science and Technology initiated
a Science and Technology Agenda for Development (STAND) which embodies the country's
task development plan for 1993 1998. In 1998, a presidential task force was formed to deal
with the overall problems confronting Research and Development and Science and Technology
development in the country. It was tasked to formulate a Science and Technology development
program that would support the national development goal of attaining a newly industrialized
country (NIC) status by the year 2000. The task force was composed of the Department of
Science and technology Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry,
Department of Transportation and Communication, as well as the adviser on public resources
and three academic institutions involved in science and technology.
Another Science and Technology framework plan entitled 'Competence, Competitive
Conscience: the Medium-Term Plan of the Department of Science and Technology (1999-
2004). Its six (6) flagship programs are:
1) Comprehensive program to enhance technology enterprises
2) Integrated program on clean technologies;
3) Establishment of a packaging R and D center
4) Expansion of regional meteorology centers;
5) S& T intervention program for the poor, vulnerable and disabled; and
6) Comprehensive science and technology program for Mindanao.

President Ramos believes that science and technology was one the means wherein the
Philippines could attain the status of new industrialized country (NIC). During his term, he was
able to establish programs and were significant to the field of Science and technology. In 1993,
Science and Technology Agenda for National Development (STAND) was established.
Among its priorities were: (1) exporting winners identified by the DTI, (2) domestic needs
identified by Presidential Council for Countryside Development, (3) support industries and (4)
coconut industry development. Among the laws enacted by Congress during President Ramos'
tem were the (1) Magna Carta for Science and Technology Personnel (R.A. 8439); (2) Science
and technology Scholarship Law of 1004 (R.A. No. 7687) and (4) Inventors and Inventions
Incentives Act (Republic Act No. 7459). The Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines
(Republic Act No. 8293) was also enacted which provides industrial property rights, copyrights
and related rights, and technology transfer arrangements.

President Joseph Estrada's Term


During the term of President Joseph Estrada, two major legislations that he signed were
the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (Republic Act No. 8749 which was designed to protect
and preserve the environment and ensure the sustainable development of its natural resources,
and Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 8792) which outlaws computer
hacking and provides opportunities for new businesses emerging from the Internet-driven New
Economy.
Aside from these, he launched a full-scale program based on cost effective irrigation
technologies. He also announced that dole-outs are out, which meant basic health care, basic
nutrition, and useful education tor those who want, but cannot afford it.

Science and Technology during President Gloria M. Arroyo's Term


In the Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo administration, the science and technology sector of
the Philippines was dubbed as the "golden age of science and technology by Secretary Estrella
Alabastro. There were numerous laws and projects that concern both the environment and
science to push technology a tool to increase the country's economic level. This is to help
increase the productivity from Science, Technology and Innovations (STI) and help benefit the
poor people. Moreover, the term “Filipinovation” was the coined term used in helping the
Philippines to be an innovation hub in Asia.
The Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) was developed further by strengthening
the schools and education system Such as the Philippine Science High School (PSHS), which
focuses on science, technology and mathematics in their curriculum. This helps schools
produce and get more involved in this sector. Private sectors were also encouraged to
participate in developing the schools through organizing events and sponsorships. Future
Filipino Scientists and innovators can be produced through this system.
Helping the environment was one of the foci in developing technology in the
Philippines. One of the more known laws to be passed by her administration was the RA. 9367
or the “Biofuels” Act. This act promotes the development and usage of biofuels throughout the
county. This potentially enables a cheaper alternative to gasoline as a medium in producing
energy. Also, this benefits the environment since it boasts a cleaner emission compared to
regular fuel. Yet setbacks such as lack of raw materials is holding the full implementation of
the laws since importing the necessary materials are imported more. On one hand, drought-free
rice was also highly encouraged to be used during her term. This enables farmers to produce
nice despite the environmental hazards that slows or stops the production.

President Benigno C. Aquino


In an effort to improve the efficiency of both land and water, the government passed
Republic Act 10601 which improves the Agriculture and Fisheries Sector through
Mechanization (AFMech). RA 10601 also covers research, development, and extension (RDE),
promotion, distribution, supply, assembling, manufacturing, regulation, use, operation,
maintenance and project implementation of agricultural and fisheries machinery and
equipment.
In 2010, President Benigno Aquino was considered as the father of Organic
Agriculture" because of his work on the Organic Agricultural Act of 2010 (R.A. 10068).
Developments regarding the research and technology of Philippine agriculture are currently in
the works. Most of the researches are inclined in solving the problem of increasing hunger in
the country by creating more efficient and cheaper process of yielding produce. The
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is an international research consortium, including
the Philippines, which serves to improve the rice production and quality through biotechnology
and research. Overall records and statistics about Philippine agricultural grown is provided by
the CountrySTAT Philippines. In 2014, gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 6.13. The
gross value added (GVA) in agriculture and fishing went up by 1.60% and this accounted for
10% of the GDP increase.
The Harmonized Agenda for Science and Technology was presented to President
Aquino in 2014 and it included two crucial issues, inclusive growth and disaster risk reduction.
On May 23, 2016, Republic Act No. 19844, otherwise known as DICI Act of 2015, was
signed into law. Under this law, the Department of Information and Communications
Technology will take charge of planning, developing and promoting the national ICT
development agenda.
SUMMARY

The state of science and technology of a country largely determines its socio- economic
progress. In other countries of the world including the Philippines science and technology has
undergone a tedious process of development. History will show that there were traces of
indigenous technology used by our forefathers as early as the prehistoric times. There is no
doubt that with the passing of the years, science and technology has improved immensely with
the progress of mankind. Breakthroughs in science and technology have improved the lives of
people across the globe, but it posed also serious concerns to mankind because of the improper
implementation of technology. The challenge therefore is for us to determine the type of future
we need to have and then create relevant technologies which will make the world a wonderful
place for us to live in.

ASSESSMENT TASKS

A. Discussion Questions

1. Describe briefly how science and technology evolved during post-commonwealth era

2. Write your own impression on the current science education in the Philippines.

3. Find out what concrete products in science you see in the society today.

Activity

B. Write a reflective essay with a title given below. Minimum of 150 words.

“What is the role of Science and Technology in your life?

LESSON 2 INTELLECTUAL REVOLUTIONS THAT DEFINED SOCIETY

LESSON OBJECTIVES
At the end of this lesson, the students should be able to:
• Discuss how the ideas postulated by Copernicus, Darwin, and Freud contributed to the
spark of scientific revolution; and
• Analyze how scientific revolution is done in various parts of the world like in Latin
America, East Asia, Middle East, and Africa.
INTRODUCTION
This lesson will give light to the development of science and Scientific ideas in the
heart of the society. It is the goal of this lesson to articulate ways by which society is
transformed by science and technology.

Scientific Revolution
Science is as-old as the world itself. There is no individual that can exactly identify
when and where science began. From the genesis of time, science has existed. It is always
interwoven with the society. So, how can science be defined?
1. Science as an idea. It includes ideas, theories, and all available systematic explanations
and observations about the natural and physical world.
2. Science as an intellectual activity. It encompasses a systematic and practical study of
the natural and physical world. This process of study involves systematic observation
and experimentation.
3. Science as a body of knowledge. It is a subject or a discipline, a field of study, or a body
of knowledge that deals with the process of learning about the natural and physical
world. This is what we refer to as school science.
4. Science as a personal and social activity. This explains that science is both knowledge
and activities done by human beings to develop better understanding of the word around
them. It is a means to improve life and to survive in life. It is interwoven with people's
lives.

Human beings have embarked in scientific activities in order to know and understand
everything around them. They have persistently observed and studied the natural and the
physical world in order to find meanings and seek answers to many questions. They have
developed noble ideas, later known as philosophy, to provide alternative or possible
explanations to certain phenomena. Humans also used religion to rationalize the origins of life
and all lifeless forms.
The idea of scientific revolution is claimed to have started in the early 16th century up
to the 18th century in Europe. Why in Europe? The probable answer is the invention of the
printing machine and the blooming intellectual activities done in various places of learning,
and the growing number of scholars in various fields of human interests. This does not mean,
however, that science is a foreign idea transported from other areas of the globe. Anyone who
can examine the history of science, technology, medicine, and mathematics is aware that al
great Civilizations of the ancient world had their own sophisticated traditions and activities
related to these disciplines.
Scientific revolution was the period of enlightenment when the developments in the
fields of mathematics, physics, astronomy, biology, and chemistry transformed the views of
society about nature. It explained the emergence or birth of modern science as a result of these
developments from the disciplines mentioned. The ideas generated during this period enabled
the people to reflect, rethink, and reexamine their beliefs and their way of life. There is no
doubt that it ignited vast human interests to rethink how they do science and view scientific
processes.
Scientific revolution was the golden age for people committed to scholarly life in
science but it was also a deeply trying moment to some scientific individuals that led to their
painful death or condemnation from the religious institutions who tried to preserve their faith,
religion, and theological views. Some rulers and religious leaders did not accept many of the
early works of scientists. But these did not stop people especially scientists to satisfy their
curiosity of the natural and physical world.

Figure 1. Influences to Scientific Revolution

Scientific revolution is very significant in the development of human beings,


transformation of the society, and in the formulation of scientific ideas. It significantly
improved the conduct of scientific investigations, experiments, and observations. The scientific
revolution also led to the creation of new research fields in science and prompted the
establishment of a strong foundation for modern science. In many ways, scientific revolution
transformed the natural world and the world of ideas.

Some Intellectuals and their Revolutionary Ideas


To further understand what exactly happened during the scientific revolution, it is
important to examine the different individuals whose ideas have shaken and contested the
dominant theories and ideas during this period-the truths of their time. Scientists in all periods
of time are driven by their curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity to explore the physical and
natural world. Their love for science is driven by their deep passion to know and to discover.

Figure 2. Variables that Influence the Development of Science ldeas, Science Discoveries,
and Technology

Scientists are not driven by clamor for honor and publicity. They are ordinary people
doing extraordinary things. Some scientists were never appreciated during their times, some
were sentenced to death, while others were condemned by the Church during their time. In
spite of all the predicaments and challenges they experienced, they never stopped
experimenting, theorizing, and discovering new knowledge and ideas.
In this part of the lesson, three notable scientists are discussed. For sure, there were
many scientists who worked before and after these individuals. However, it is important to note
that these men, particularly through their ideas, had shaken the world.

Nicolaus Copernicus
One of the Renaissance men, particularly in the field of science, is Nicolaus Copernicus.
Knowledge about the nature of the universe had been essentially unchanged since the great
days of Ancient Greece, some 1,500 years before Copernicus came on the scene (Gribbin,
2003). This continued up to the Renaissance period. In one important way, Copernicus
resembled the Greek ancient philosophers or thinkers-he did not do anything extensive such as
observing heavenly bodies or inviting people to test his ideas, His ideas were an example of
what is presently called as a thought experiment. By the time he finished his doctorate degree,
Copernicus had been appointed as canon at Frombork Cathedral in Poland. Despite his duty as
a canon, he had plenty of time to sustain his interest in astronomy. Copernicus was strongly
influenced by a book entitled Epitome published in 1496 by a German author, Johannes
Mücller. This book contains Müeller's observations of the heavens and some commentary on
earlier works especially that of Ptolemy.
Copernicus's idea and model of the universe was essentially complete in 1510. Not long
after that, he circulated a summary of his ideas to his few close friends in a manuscript called
Commentariolus (Little Commentary). There was no proof that Copernicus was concerned
about the risk of persecution by the Church if he published his ideas formally.
Copernicus was a busy man. His duty as a canon and as a doctor affected his time to
formally publish his work and advance his career in astronomy. The publication of his book
De revolutionibus orbium coelestium (On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres) in 1543 is
often cited as the start of the scientific revolution.
In his book, he wanted a model of the universe in which everything moved around a
single center at unvarying rates (Gribbin, 2003). Copernicus placed the Sun to be the
centerpiece of the universe. The Earth and all the planets are surrounding or orbiting the Sun
each year. The Moon, however, would still be seen orbiting the Earth. Copernicus' smodel of
the Earth orbiting around the Sun automatically positioned the planets into a logical sequence.
In his model, Copernicus outlined two kinds of planetary motion: () the orbits of Venus and
Mercury lay inside the orbit of the Earth, thus, closer to the Sun; and (2) the orbits of Mars,
Saturn, and Jupiter lay outside the Earth's orbit, thus, farther from the Sun. From this model,
he would work on the length of time it will take for each planet to orbit once around the Sun,
The result would form a sequence from Mercury, With a shortest year, through Venus, Earth,
Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn with the longest year, He placed the planets in order of increasing
distance from the Sun. One of the great problems in the Copernicus model, however, was the
position of the stars. The stars cannot be placed in a fixed position like crystals in a distance
sphere.
Copernicus is also a courageous man. Although the Copernican model makes sense
now, during those times, it was judged to be heretic and therefore it was an unacceptable idea
to be taught to Catholics. The Catholic Church banned the Copernican model and was ignored
by Rome for the rest of the 16th century.

THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS


1. What is the contribution of Copernicus in the philosophy of Science?

2. Do you think thought experiment is still useful in science in the present time?

3. Do you think the Church should intervene in scientific activities?

Charles Darwin
Charles Darwin is famous for his theory of evolution. He changed our concept to the
world's creation and its evolution. Johnson (2012) described Darwin as a genius who came
from a line of intellectually gifted and wealthy family. He developed his interest in natural
history during his time as a student at Shrewsbury School. He would also spend time taking
long walks to observe his surroundings while collecting specimens and he pored over books in
his father's library (Gribbin, 2003). According to Johnson, Darwin went to the best schools but
was observed to be a mediocre student. He struggled in his study in medicine and ministry,
which his father has imposed to him. Darwin's life soon changed when one of his professors
recommended him to join a five-year voyage through the HMS Beagle on the Islands of
Galapagos.
Darwin published his book The Origin of Species in 1589. This book is considered to
be one of the most important works in scientific literature Darwin collected many significant
materials in order to present his theory with overwhelming evidence. His book presented
evidence on how species evolved over time and presented traits and adaptation that
diflierentiate species. Like many other scholars, Darwin accumulated many pertinent materials
and data that he could ever possibly need to substantiate his theory.
Darwin's observational skills as a scientist were extraordinary that moved beyond the
realms of plants and animals into the realms of humans. His book The Descent of Man was so
impressive yet very controversial. He introduced the idea of all organic life, including human
beings, under the realm of evolutionary thinking. This replaced the dominant views of a
religious or biblical design that places human beings in a privileged position of having been
created by God. Darwin's theory of evolution scientifically questioned this view.
Darwin's accomplishments were so diverse that it is useful to distinguish two fields to
which he made major contributions: evolutionary biology and philosophy of science. More
than these works, what made Darwin truly remarkable was his courage to challenge religious
and unscientific ideas that are deemed to be prominent during those days. His unorthodox way
of pursuing science gave more value to evidence-based science. Darwin provided a different
framework for doing scientific activities. It is a science marked by observation and experiment.

THINK About THESE QUESTIONS


1. What is Darwin's contribution to modern science?

2. How can Darwin's evolutionary theory influence the following fields in modern times:
• Economy
• Agriculture
• Political Science
• Religion

Sigmund Freud
Freud is a famous figure in the field of psychology. Rosenfels (1980) also described
him as a towering literary figure and a very talented communicator who did his share to raise
the consciousness of the civilized world in psychological matters.
However, apart from these, Freud also made a significant contribution in the scientific
world through the development of an important observational method to gather reliable data to
study humans’ inner life. This method is popularly known as the method of psychoanalysis.
The scientific hypothesis he formulated formed the essential fundamental version of this
method. For Freud, this method of psychoanalysis is a scientific way to study the human mind
and neurotic illness. It is no doubt that amidst all questions on his works that led to some sort
of academic controversy, his method of psychoanalysis had great impact on the scientific way
of understanding human nature.
Freud is not a traditional thinker. According to Weiner (2016), his method of
psychoanalysis was proven to be effective in understanding some neurological conditions that
were not understood by medicine at that time. His method was unorthodox-focusing on human
sexuality and the evil nature of man. This posed immense challenges to scholars and ordinary
citizens of his time. To some, they found his ideas not easy especially in his explanations of
human sexuality.
Freud was born in a much later period from the scientific revolution but his contribution
to knowledge can be seen in many aspects of the human scene, including art, literature,
philosophy, politics, and psychotherapy. Whether he is more of a psychologist or a scientist is
for people to decide. The fact remains that Freudian ideas and theories are still considered
nowadays as a great inspiration to examine human mind and behavior in a more scientifically
accepted way.

THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS

1. By looking for other sources and literatures, what are the controversies or questions on
Freud's ideas?

2. How can you describe Freudian ideas as a scientist?

3. If Freud is still alive, what do you think are the major changes he would make to his theory?

Cradles of Early Science


Development of Science in Mesoamerica
Mesoamerica includes the entire area of Central America from Southern Mexico up to
the border of South America. There is no doubt that the Mesoamerican region is rich in culture
and knowledge prior to the arrival of its European colonizers.
The Maya civilization is one of the famous civilizations that lasted for approximately
2,000 years. These people are known for their works in astronomy. They incorporated their
advanced understanding of astronomy into their temples and other religious structures. This
allows them to use their temples for astronomical observation. For example, the pyramid at
Chichén Itzá in Mexico is situated at the location of the Sun during the spring and fall
equinoxes.
Mayan knowledge and understanding about celestial bodies was advanced for their
time, as evidenced by their knowledge. of predicting eclipse and using astrological cycles in
planting and harvesting. The Mayans are also known for measuring time using two complicated
calendar systems. These calendars were very useful for their life especially in planning their
activities and in observing their religious rituals and cultural celebrations.
The Mayans also developed the technology for growing different crops and building
elaborate cities using ordinary machineries and tools. They built hydraulics system with
sophisticated waterways to supply water to different communities.
Furthermore, they used various tools and adapt themselves to innovations especially in
the field of arts. The Mayans built looms for weaving cloth and devised a rainbow of glittery
paints made from a mineral called mica. They are also believed to be one of the first people to
produce rubber products 3,000 years before Goodyear received its patent in 1844.
The Mayans are considered one of the most scientifically advanced societies in
Mesoamerica. They are also famous as one of the world's first civilizations to use a writing
system known as the Mayan hieroglyphics. They were also skilled in mathematics and created
a number system based on the numeral 20. Moreover, they independently developed the
concept of zero and positional value, even before the Romans did.
The Inca civilization is also famous in Mesoamerica. The Incas made advanced
scientific ideas considering their limitations as an old civilization. The following were scientific
ideas and tools that they developed to help them in everyday life:
1. roads paved with stones;
2. stone buildings that surmounted earthquakes and other disasters;
3. irrigation system and technique for storing water for their crops to grow in all types of
land;
4. calendar with 12 months to mark their religious festivals and prepare them for planting
season;
5. the first suspension bridge;
6. quipu, a system of knotted ropes to keep records that only experts can interpret; and
7. Inca textiles since cloth was one of the specially prized artistic achievements.

Following the Inca, the Aztec civilization has also made substantial contributions to science
and technology and to the society as a whole. Some of their contributions are the following:
1. Mandatory education. The Aztec puts value on education; that is why their children
are mandated to get education regardless of their social class, gender, or age. It is an
early form of universal or inclusive education.
2. Chocolates. The Aztec in Mexico developed chocolate during their time. In the Mayan
culture, they used it as currency. The Aztec valued the cacao beans highly and made it
as part of their tribute to their gods.
3. Antispasmodic medication. They used a type of antispasmodic medication that could
prevent muscle spasms and relax muscles, which could help during surgery.
4. Chinampa. It is a form of Aztec technology for agricultural farming in which the land
was divided into rectangular areas and surrounded by canals.
5. Aztec calendar. This enabled them to plan their activities, rituals, and planting season.
6. Invention of the canoe. A light narrow boat used for traveling in water systems.

Development of Science in Asia


Asia is the biggest continent in the world and the home of many ancient civilizations.
It is a host to many cultural, economic, scientific, and political activities of all ages. In the field
of science, technology, and mathematics, great civilizations have stood out: India, China, and
the Middle East civilizations. These civilizations were incomparable in terms of their
contributions to the development of knowledge during their time.
India
India is a huge peninsula surrounded by vast bodies of water and fortified by huge
mountains in its northern boarders. The Indians creatively developed various ideas and
technologies useful in their everyday lives. hey are known for manufacturing iron and in
metallurgical works. Their iron steel is considered to be the best and held with high regard in
the whole of Roman Empire.
India is also famous in medicine. For example, Ayurveda, a system of traditional
medicine that originated in ancient India before 2500 BC, is still practiced as a form of
alternative medicine. They discovered some medicinal properties of plants that led them to
develop medicines to cure various illnesses. Some ancient texts, like the Susruta Samhita,
describes different surgical and other medical procedures famous in Ancient India.
Ancient India is also notable in the field of astronomy. They developed theories on the
configuration of the universe, the spherical self-supporting Earth, and the year of 360 days with
12 equal parts of 30 days each. Sama (2008) noted that their interest in astronomy was also
evident in the first 12 chapters of the Siddhanta Shiromani, written in the12th century.
According to Sama (2008), this ancient text covered topics such as: mean longitudes of the
planets; true longitudes of the planets; the three problems of diurnal rotation, syzygies; lunar
eclipses; solar eclipses; latitudes of the planets; risings and settings; the moon's crescent;
conjunctions of the planets with each other; conjunctions of the planets with the fixed stars,
and the paths of the sun and moon.
Ancient India is also known for their mathematics. Bisht (1982) noted that the earliest
traces of mathematical knowledge in the Indian subcontinent appeared in the Indus Valley
Civilization. The people of this civilization, according to Bisht (1982), tried to standardize
measurement of length to a high degree of accuracy and designed a ruler, the Mohenjo-daro
ruler.
Clifford (2008) and Bose (1998) pointed out that Indian astronomer and mathematician
Aryabhata (476-550), in his Aryabhatiya, introduced a number of trigonometric functions,
tables, and techniques, as well as algorithms of algebra. In 628 AD, another Indian,
Brahmagupta, also suggested that gravity was a force of attraction, and lucidly explained the
use of zero as both a placeholder and a decimal digit, along with the Hindu-Arabic numeral
system now used universally throughout the world (Clifford, 2008; Bose, 1998). Another
Indian named Madhava of Sangamagrama is also considered as the founder of mathematical
analysis (Joseph, 1991).

China
China is one of the ancient civilizations with substantial contributions in many areas of
life like medicine, astronomy, science, mathematics, arts, philosophy, and music, among
others. Chinese civilizations have greatly influenced many of its neighbor countries like Korea,
Japan, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, and other countries that belong
to the old Silk Road.
The Chinese are known for traditional medicines, a product of centuries of experiences
and discovery of the Chinese people. They discovered various medical properties and uses of
different plants and animals to cure human illness. An example is the practice of acupuncture.
ln terms of technology, the Chinese are known to develop many Tools. Among the
famous discoveries and inventions of the Chinese Civilizations were compass, papermaking,
gunpowder, and printing tools that became known in the West only by the end of the Middle
Ages (Davies, 1995). They also invented other tools like iron plough, wheelbarrow, and
propeller, among others. They developed a design of different models of bridges (Zhongguo
ke xue yuan, 1983), invented the first seismological detector, and developed a dry dock facility
(Needham et al., 1971).
In the field of astronomy, the Chinese also made significant records on supernovas,
lunar and solar eclipses, and comets, which were carefully recorded and preserved to
understand better the heavenly bodies and their effects to our world (Mayall, 1939). They
observed the heavenly bodies to understand weather changes and seasons that may affect their
daily activities. They used lunar calendars, too. The Chinese are also known in seismology.
This made them more prepared in times of natural calamities.
China made substantial contributions in various fields. The list of their discoveries and
inventions is overwhelming. These contributions were made along with mathematics, logic,
philosophy, and medicine. However, cultural factors prevented these Chinese achievements
from developing to modern science. According to Needham (1986), it may have been the
religious and philosophical framework of Chinese intellectuals that made them unable to accept
the ideas of laws of nature,

Middle East Countries


The Middle East countries are dominantly occupied by Muslims. With the spread of
Islam in the 7th and 8th centuries, a period of Muslim scholarship, or what is called the Golden
Age of Islam lasted until the 13th century. The common language of Arabic, access to Greek
texts from the Byzantine Empire, and their proximity to India were contributory to the
intellectualization of the Muslims and provided their scholars knowledge to create innovations
and develop new ideas. But contrary to the Greeks, Muslim scientists placed greater value on
science experiments rather than plain-thought experiments. This led to the development of the
scientific method in the Muslim world, and made significant improvements by using
experiments to distinguish between competing scientific theories set within a generally
empirical orientation. A Muslim scientist named lbn al-Haytham is also regarded as the Father
of Optics, especially for his empirical proof of the intromission theory of light.
In mathematics, the mathematician Muhammad ibn Musa al- Khwarizmi gave his name
to the concept of the algorithm while the term algebra is derived from al-jabr, the beginning of
the title of one of his publications. What is now knòwn as the Arabic Numeral System originally
came from India, but Muslim mathematicians did make several refinements to the number
system, Such as the introduction of decimal point notation.
Muslim chemists and alchemists also played an important role in the foundation of
modern chemistry (Durant, 1980). In particular, some scholars considered Jabir ibn Hayyān to
be the "Father of Chemistry" (Derewenda, 2007; Warren, 2005).
In the field of medicine, Ibn Sina pioneered the science of experimental medicine and
was the first physician to conduct clinical trials (Jacquart, 2008). His two most notable works
in medicine, the Book of Healing and The Canon of Medicine, were used as standard medicinal
texts in both the Muslim world and in Europe during the 17th century. Among his many
contributions are the discovery of the contagious nature of infectious diseases and the
introduction of clinical pharmacology (Craig & Walter, 2000).
There are numerous Muslim scholars who made significant contributions in the field of
science, mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, and even in the field of social sciences. The
decline of this golden age of Islam started in the 11th to 13th century due to the conquest of the
Mongols whereby libraries, observatories, and other learning institutions were destroyed.

Development of Science in Africa


Africa is blessed with natural and mineral resources. Science also emerged in this part
of the planet long before the Europeans colonized it. The history of science and mathematics
show that similar to other ancient civilizations, the early civilizations in Africa are knowledge
producers, too.
The ancient Egyptian civilization has contributed immensely and made significant
advances in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. For example, the development
of geometry was a product of necessity to preserve the layout and ownership of farmlands of
the Egyptians living along the Nile River. The rules of geometry were developed and used to
build rectilinear structures, the post of lintel architecture of Egypt. These early science activities
in Egypt were developed to improve the quality of life of the Egyptians especially in building
their early homes and cities. The great structures of the Egyptian pyramids and the early dams
built to divert water from the Nile River are some proofs of their advanced civilization.
Egypt was known to be a center of alchemy, which is known as the medieval forerunner
of chemistry. They tried to study human anatomy and pharmacology, and applied important
components such as examination, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for the treatment of
diseases. These components displayed strong parallels to the basic empirical method of
studying science.
Astronomy was also famous in the African region. For instance, documents show that
Africans used three types of calendars: lunar, solar, and stellar, or a combination of the three.
Metallurgy was also known in the African regions during the ancient times. North
Africa and the Nile Valley imported iron technology from the Near East region that enabled
them to benefit from the developments during the Bronze Age until the Iron Age. They invented
metal tools used in their homes, in agriculture, and in building their magnificent architectures.
Mathematics was also known to be prominent in the life of early people in the African
continent. The Lebombo Bone from the mountains between Swaziland and South Africa, which
may have been a tool for multiplication, division, and simple mathematical caleculation or a
six month lunar calendar, is considered to be the oldest known mathematical artifact dated from
35,000 BCE. Ancient Egyptians are good in the four fundamental mathematical operations and
other mathematical skills. They have knowledge of the basic concepts of algebra and geometry.
The Islamic regions in Africa during the medieval period was also benefiting from
mathematical learning, which is considered advanced during those times, such as algebra,
geometry, and trigonometry.

SUMMARY
Scientific revolution is a golden age in the history of science. It marked the birth of
science as a discipline and as a field of inquiry and gave birth to the development of the
scientific method. It was a time in the history of science where many scientific ideas and
discoveries, which were considered innovative and useful, were developed. Some of these ideas
were also controversial in the scientific community and in the political arena. The scientific
revolution significantly changed how people study science and do scientific activities. It
inspired human creativity and critical thinking, moving away from thought experiments to data-
driven and experiment-based ideas.
There were many intellectuals who made essential contributions in science during the
period of scientific revolution. Nicolaus Copernicus developed a model of the universe in
which everything moved around a single center at unvarying rates. He placed the Sun in the
center of the universe and all the planets were surrounding or orbiting it. Copernicus's model
of planets orbiting around the Sun automatically positioned the planets into a logical sequence.
Charles Darwin made significant contribution in the field of evolutionary biology and
philosophy of science. His theory of evolution by natural selection is very useful in many fields
until now. Sigmund Freud developed the idea of psychoanalysis that helped in understanding
human behavior especially neurological conditions.
Science also developed in different parts of the world: in Asia, Europe, Mesoamerica,
and Africa. People in these continents invented tools to help them in everyday life, discovered
medicines to cure diseases, observed heavenly bodies, built structures, discovered many things,
and invented mathematics as a tool and as a discipline. Science provided different ancient
civilizations the means to survive and understand the natural and physical world. It also enabled
human beings to develop various technologies that helped them in their everyday tasks.

THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS

1. How did society shape science and how did science shape society?
2. How do social and human issues influence science?
3. How do the political and cultural landscapes of the society affect the development of
scientific culture, science activities, and science literacy?
4. Considering the current state of our society, do you think science literacy among people has
contributed to the growth of our economy?
5. How can science influence government policies?

ACTIVITY
1. Go to your respective groups.
2. Review the history of science
3. Create a timeline HIGHLIGHTING the major discoveries and developments in science.
LESSON 3 Science and Technology and Its Role in Nation Building

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this lesson, the learner should be able to:
• Distinguish science from technology;
• Explain how science and technology affect society and the environment;
• Discuss how science and technology contribute to national development;
• Describe the role of science and technology in nation building; and
• Creatively present the importance and contributions of science and technology to
society.

Introduction
The advent of science and technology brought progress not only in our country but in
the entire world. Its development determines to a large extent the socio-economic progress of
a country. It is a well-known fact that it is directly associated with modernity and is an essential
tool for rapid development and progress of a country.

Science and Technology Defined


Science and technology is a field of endeavor upon which a two-way interaction
operates between the two.
While science is the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic
study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and
experiment (Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary, 11th Edition), technology is the
application of scientific knowledge tor practical purposes (Oxford). It is the use of resources
made available by nature to procreate and make changes.

Importance of Science and Technology to National Development


Development at any phase is always linked with technology and technology happens
when there is advancement in science. Modernization in every aspect of life is the greatest
example of the implementation of science and technology in every nation. With introduction
of modern gadgets in every walk of lite, life has become simple and this is possible only
because of implementing science and technology together. Without having modern equipment
in all sectors, be it in medicine, infrastructure, aviation, electricity, information technology or
any other field, the advancement and benefits that we face today would not have been possible.
A nation’s development and prosperity IS judged to a large extent by the status of
science and technology of that nation. Science and technology are key drivers to development,
because technological and scientific revolutions underpin economic advances, Improvement in
health systems, education and infrastructure.
Today, countries are classified as developed and developing countries. The major
categorization is based on the economy and the application of Science and technology.
Countries which have a strong base in science and technology are the ones that developed
taster. A few examples are countries Ike Japan, Russia, Brazil, China, and many more. It is
estimated by the World Bank that seven of the ten largest economies of the world by 2020
would be in Asia: China, Japan, India, Thailand, South Korea, and Taiwan. A few decades ago,
these countries were known to have poor policies, low discipline and no advancement. But with
the introduction and proper implementation of science and technology in an effective manner,
they made great advancements across the globe.
The role that science and technology has played in improving the life of people across
the globe is vivid and has made life a lot easier and a lot better with the advancement in
medicine, remarkable development in education, communication, agriculture, business and
industry.
Science and technology holds the key to the progress and development of any nation.
Technology plays a fundamental role in wealth creation, improvement in the quality of life and
real economic growth and transformation in any society.
A nation who is not able to prosper in these aspects would never be able to sustain its
life and may have to depend on other nations. Without proper implementation of science and
technology, no nation could grow and all those nations that were labeled as low in growth have
proven where they stand today and all that happened because of science and technology.

Importance of Science and Technology


Today, we cannot expect our lite without science and technology revolving around
every single second. Science and technology are extremely essential in our everyday life as
they have made things simpler, fast, and secured.
Almost everything that we see around us Is the girt of science and technology Be it the
smartphones, tan, wheel, vehicles, cloth, paper, toothbrush, electricity, microwave, vehicles,
radio, television, laptops, etc., everything is the result or science and technology.

Here are What Science and Technology do for us:


1. It helps us save time and money. Various contributions of science and technology
have helped us save time and money. While science has given us the knowledge why
baked or steam-cooked food is better than the fried or oily food, technology has gifted
us with microwave and steam-cookers that help us bake and steam cook our food.
Various objects like computers, modes of transport, washing machines help us save
time and energy.
2. Education. Science and technology have made significant contribution in the education
field as well. Technology has made education itself easier. It has provided us options
like smart classes, multimedia devices, e-libraries, e-books, etc.
3. Internet. Information technology, including internet, is an excellent gift of technology.
With the help of internet, we do not get only immense knowledge on science and other
subjects, but we also get to stay connected with our friends and family.
4. Provides us devices for comfortable sleeping, quick cooking and fast commute.
With the help of objects like AC microwave and vehicles, science and technology have
made our sleeping, cooking, and commuting process easier and faster.
5. It helps us live a better life. While science has made significant contributions in health
by providing treatment for various chronic diseases, technology has benefited us in
receiving those treatments through various ways and devices like X-ray, scan machines,
operation devices, pacemaker, and many more. We are also blessed with numerous
exercising equipment, various health apps, online doctor and other things that help us
maintain good health and life.

Impact of Technology on Society


Technology by itself is not harmful to society, but the way society uses technology to
achieve specific goals is what results into negative impacts of technology on the society.
Humans need to use energy to process products in factories, to run cars, to light homes and also
run technological machines like computers, but the only way we can do this without affecting
the environment and society is by shifting from exhaustible energy sources to renewable and
inexhaustible energy sources like solar/wind energy. Technology has contributed much to
various aspects of life. (https:/www.use-of-technology/com/society-impact-tech-society/
• Technology has improved transportation. Transportation is one of the basic areas of
technological activity. Both society and businesses have benefited from the new
transportation methods. Transportation provides mobility for people and 90ods.
Transportation, like other technologies, can be viewed as a system. It is a series of parts
that are interrelated. These parts all work together to meet a certain goal. 1echnology
has made possible all types of transportation and these include: (1) road transport used
by automobiles; (2) air transport which is used by airplanes; (3water transportation
which is used by ships and speedb0ats, and (4) space transportation used to go to the
moon. Technologies like automobiles, buses and trucks have improved the way humans
move and how they transport their goods from one place to another.
• Technology has improved communication. Communication is used for a number of
purposes. Both society and organizations depend on communication to transfer
information. People use technology to communicate with each other. Electronic media
like radios, televisions, internet, and social media have improved the way we exchange
ideas which can develop our societies. In many countries, radios and televisions are
used to voice the concerns of society. They organize live forums where the community
can contribute through mobile phones or text service systems like tweeter
Communication technologies like televisions, radio and internet are used to persuade,
entertain and inform the people about the various programs of the government. Small
businesses have also used the internet and mobile communication technology to grow
and improve their business.
• The World Wide Web has proved to be an enormous information base from which
information can be retrieved by means of search engines. Information from all around
the world is housed on the web. With the development of web technology, the
information can be organized in an organized manner and relevant information can be
retrieved on supplying search strings to web search engines. Digitization of information
has been a major breakthrough in the world of information technology.
• Technology has improved education and the learning process. Education IS the
backbone of every economy. People need well and organized educational
infrastructures so that they can learn how to interpret information. Many schools have
integrated educational technologies in their schools with the aim of improving the way
students lean. Technologies like smart whiteboards, computers, mobile phones, iPads,
projectors and internet are being used in classrooms to boost students’ morale to learn.
In the past, when there was no technological advancement, education was usually difficult
to access and comprehend, Today, people can get educated even at their doorsteps without
going to a building called university or college to collect their certificates. Distant learning and
on-line study have made this possible.

The Role of Science and Technology in Nation-Building


It is a well-established fact that science and technology Impacts all aspects of our lives
as well as the planet we live on. The changes induced by science and technology have for the
most part benefited mankind although there is many a case where science and technology-
based innovations have been used for the detriment of mankind, pursued for either wealth and
power or both. It is the responsibility of all concerned to ensure that science and technology is
used widely to benefit mankind (Ratnasiri, 2006).
Science and technology has been one of the main driving forces of the economic growth
of nations. Most developed countries have generated new technologies with potential to result
in dynamic economic performance. This, however, has not been the case with most of the
developing countries and their developmental plans have not given emphasis and importance
to science and technology and in particular to research in the science and technology aspects.
Countries like India, South Korea, and Taiwan in the region have achieved much through
science and technology and stand out as having demonstrated the absolute importance of
science and technology for economic growth. These countries are example for the developing
countries. The impact of technology on society without doubt is going to be even more marked
in the future.
It is then of paramount importance to generate and develop new knowledge in science
and technology for application nationally through our own research capability. It is also
necessary to concentrate on the rapid transfer and exchange of proven technologies from other
nations to reap the benefits of the global trends to stimulate our economic growth.
That science and technology plays a decisive role in the economic growth of nations is
a foregone conclusion. It is then pertinent to also consider and rethink about the role of
scientists and technologists in stimulating the economic well-being of the country. It is well
accepted that scientists and technologists must necessarily generate new knowledge by
engaging in meaningful and appropriate research and developmental activities. A question
needs to be posed to the researchers as to whether their role should be limited to only the narrow
confines of creation of new knowledge. Scientists and technologists are to contribute
significantly to social and economic changes resulting in the development of the country, their
role should expand beyond generation of new knowledge and assume the role of advising the
decision makers and finally making the decisions on the science and technology prospects,
choices and priorities for the country.
How can scientists and technologists contribute to achieving' the multiple role which is
a dire necessity for the economic development of the country?
Researchers, as creators of new knowledge, must focus their work on nationally and
globally important and competitive areas of research which are multidisciplinary in nature.
This means that the results of research must be goal and result-oriented, tangible and
significant. On the other hand, scientists and technologists should be totally committed to add
and develop significantly to the knowledge base in science and technology aspects which are
of economic importance to the nation.

The Role of Science and Technology in the Developing World in the 21st Century
Developments in science and technology are fundamentally altering the way people
live, connect, communicate and transact, with profound effects on economic development.
According to Lee Roy Chetty (2012), science and technology are key drivers to development,
because Scientific and technological revolutions underpin economic advances, improvements
in health systems, education and infrastructure. The technological revolutions of the 21"
century are emerging from entirely new sectors, based on micro-processors,
telecommunications, bio-technology and nano-technology. Products are transforming business
practices across the economy, as well as he lives of all who have access to their effects. The
most remarkable breakthroughs will come from the interaction of insights and applications
arising when these technologies converge.
Through breakthroughs in health services and education, these technologies have the
power to improve the lives of poor people in developing countries. Eradicating malaria and
cures for other diseases which are endemic in developing countries are now possible, allowing
people with debilitating conditions to live healthy and productive lives.
The extent to which developing economies emerge as economic powerhouses depends
on their ability to grasp and apply insights from science and technology and use them
creatively. Innovation is the primary driver of technological growth and drives higher living
standards.
To promote technological advances, developing countries should invest in quality
education for youth, continuous skills training for workers and managers, and should ensure
that knowledge is shared as widely possible across society.
The state of science and technology determines the socio-economic progress of a
country. It is a well-known fact that national progress is highly correlated to the capacity of a
country to produce local industrial goods for domestic needs and that industrialization is very
much dependent on the application of science and technology.

SUMMARY
Science and technology has made great contributions to various aspects of our lives. It has
altered the way people live, connect and communicate and thus has affected profoundly the
economic development in the country.

ASSESSMENT TASKS

A. Discussion Questions

1. Go to your respective groups and exchange ideas on concrete manifestations of the role
that science and technology play in nation building. Fill up this matrix after your
academic conversation.
Contribution Benefit/s Outcome
Local

Regional

National

THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS

1. Identify several issues in the Philippines. What science and technology-related policies
could be developed and implemented to solve these social issues?
2. What can you say about the implementation of some science and technology policies
and projects in the country?
3. What are the laws related to science and technology in the Philippines from the year
2000?
4. How are these laws implemented?

ACTIVITY

Create a short video about what you think society or the world would be without science
and technology. Minimum of 1 minute.

LESSON 4 SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

LESSON OBJECTIVES
At the end of this lesson, the students should be able to:
• Discuss the concept of science education; and
• Identify science schools established to promote science education in the Philippines.

INTRODUCTION
The Philippines is trying its best to improve the state of science education in the country.
This lesson will discuss the concept of science education and will identify some strategies to
promote science education in the country. One of the strategies is to establish science schools
that will encourage students to pursue their career in science and technology and to nurture
their gifted potentials in science.

The Concept of Science Education


Science education focuses on teaching, learning, and understanding science. Teaching
science involves developing ways on how to effectively teach science. This means exploring
pedagogical theories and models in helping teachers teach scientific concepts and processes
effectively. Learning science, on the other hand, includes both pedagogy and the most
interesting aspect, which is helping students understand and love science. Understanding
science implies developing and applying science-process skills and using science literacy in
understanding the natural world and activities in everyday life.
Getting deeper into the discourse of science education, John Dewey (2001) stressed the
importance of utilizing the natural environment to teach students. Accordingly, nature must
indeed furnish its physical stimuli to provide wealth of meaning through social activities and
thinking. It is not surprising therefore that science education is important. In fact, Marx (1994)
opines that science is going to be one of the most important school subjects in the future.
Science education is justified by the vast amount of scientific knowledge developed in
this area that prepares citizens in a scientifically and technologically driven world. Science
education provides skills and knowledge that are necessary for a person to live in what Knight
(1986) describes as the age of science and to develop a citizenry that will meet the goals of
science in the society (Tilghman, 2005). Developing a science culture is therefore an immense
responsibility for schools.

Science Education in Basic and Tertiary Education


In basic education, science education helps students learn important concepts and facts
that are related to everyday life (Carale & Camp0, 2003; Meador, 2005; Worth & Grollman,
2003) including important skills Such as process skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills
that are needed in coping up with daily life activities (Chaille & Britain, 2002). Science
education also develops positive attitude such as: the love for knowledge, passion for
innovative things, curiosity to study about nature, and creativity (Lind, 1997). Science
education will develop a strong foundation for Studying science and for considering science-
related careers in the future. This is an investment for the country to develop a scientifically
cultured and literate citizenry.
In tertiary education, science education deals with developing students' understanding
and appreciation of science ideas and scientific works. This is done through offering basic
science courses in the General Education curriculum. Science education in the tertiary level
also focuses on the preparation of science teachers, scientists, engineers, and other
professionals in various science-related fields such as engineering, agriculture, medicine, and
health sciences. The state provides scholarships to encourage more students to pursue
science.courses.
Science Schools in the Philippines
One outstanding program for science education supported by the government is the
establishment of science schools in various parts of the country. There are also several
government programs implemented by the Department of Education and few private schools
for science education.

Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS)


This is a government program for gifted students in the Philippines. It is a service
institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) whose mandate is to offer free
scholarship basis for secondary course with special emphasis on subjects pertaining to the
sciences, with the end-view of preparing its students for a science career (Republic Act No.
3661). The school maintains a dormitory for all its students.
Since its inception, the PSHSS continues to pursue its vision to develop Filipino science
scholars with scientific minds and passion for excellence. PSHSS students have proven to be a
beacon of excellence, courage, and hope for the country. They have brought honor to the
Philippines through their exemplary achievements in various international competitions and
research circles. When the students graduate from the school, they are expected to pursue
degrees in science and technology at various colleges and universities locally or abroad.

Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project


The Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project is in pursuance to DepEd
Order No. 73 s. 2008, and DepEd Order No. 51 s. 2010. This project started in June 2007 with
57 identified elementary schools that participated or were identified as science elementary
schools in the country. Since its inception, the number have grown to more than 60 schools
nationwide and this is now its sixth year of implementation.
The SSES Project aims to develop Filipino children equipped with scientific and
technological knowledge, skills, and values. Its mission is to:
• provide a learning environment to science-inclined children through a special
curriculum that recognizes the multiple intelligences of the learners;
• promote the development of lifelong learning skills; and foster the holistic development
of the learners.
The subject Science and Health is taught in Grade 1 with a longer time compared to
other subjects: 70 minutes for Grades I to III and 80 minutes for Grades IV to VI. The
curriculum also utilizes different instructional approaches that address the learning styles and
needs of the learners like the use of investigatory projects.

Quezon City Regional Science High School


The school was established on September 17, 1967. Originally, it was named Quezon
City Science High School. It was turned into a regional science high school for the National
Capital Region in 1999. The school was a product of a dream to establish a special science
school for talented students in science and mathematics. The focus of the Curriculum is on
science and technology. The school still teaches the basic education courses prescribed by the
Department of Education (DepEd) for secondary education. However, there are additional
subjects in sciences and technology that students should take. The school envisions to serve as
avenue in providing maximum opportunities for science-gifted students to develop spirit of
inquiry and creativity. The school is well-supported by the local government unit and by the
Parents and Teachers Association (PTA). The school is under the Department of Education.

Manila Science High School


The school was established on October 1, 1963 as the Manila Science High School
(MSHS). It is the first science, high school in the Philippines. The organization and curriculum
of the school puts more emphasis on science and mathematics. MSHS aims to produce
scientists with souls. In order to do this, humanities courses and other electives are included in
their curriculum. Students are also encouraged to participate in various extracurricular
activities. The school administers an entrance exam, the Manila Science High School
Admission Test (MSAT), for students who wish to enroll. The MSAT has five parts: aptitude
in science, aptitude test in mathematics, problem-solving test in science, problem-solving test
in mathematics, and proficiency in English. The school prides itself from producing
outstanding alumni and for winning various national competitions.

Central Visayan Institute Foundation


It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school-based innovation known as the
Dynamic Learning Program (DLP). The DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern
pedagogical theories adapted to foster the highest level of learning, creativity, and productivity.
The school takes pride in its Research Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP)
established in 1992, which organizes small international workshops to foster the intormal but
intense exchange of ideas and perspectives on outstanding problems in physics and
mathematics.

SUMMARY
Science education deals with the teaching and learning of science and in helping the
public develop science literacy. This is important in the promotion and development of science
and technology in the country Science education deals with the development of people in
science, which is the heart of science, technology, and society.
This lesson focused on discussing the concept of science education and introduced
science education in the Philippines from basic education to tertiary education. To promote
science education, science schools were established to develop gifted students in science and
mathematics, such as the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS), Manila Science
High School, Quezon City Regional Science High School, and the Special Science Elementary
Schools Project. Science programs and projects were organized and developed to nurture
innovation in science in the country, and to encourage individuals to pursue careers and
research in science and technology.
THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS

1. What other government projects and programs are available for science education in the
Philippines?

2. Are there private schools with outstanding science education programs? Identify and
compare their science education programs with public science schools.

ACTIVITY

1. Discuss with your group the science-related issues and problems in the country.
2. Identify science and technology policies that could be adapted or implemented in the
Philippines.

LESSON 4 INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES

LESSON OBJECTIVES
At the end of this lesson, the students should be able to:
• discuss the concept of indigenous science; and
• discuss the contribution of indigenous science in THE development of science and
technology in the Philippines.

INTRODUCTION
This lesson focuses on indigenous science and technology in THE Philippines.
Filipinos, especially during the early times, tried to INVENT tools that will help them in
everyday life. They also developed ALTERNATIVE ideas in explaining various phenomena
and in explaining the world AROUND them. This system of knowledge is called indigenous
knowledge, which is the foundation of indigenous science.

Indigenous Knowledge System


Indigenous knowledge is embedded in the daily life experiences of young children as
they grow up. They live and grow in a society where the embers of the community prominently
practice indigenous knowledge. Their parents and other older folks served as their first teachers
and their methods of teaching are very effective in transmitting cultural knowledge their minds.
The lessons they learned are intimately interwoven with their Culture and the environment.
These lessons comprised of good values and life stories of people on their daily life struggles.
Their views about nature and their reflections on their experiences in daily life are evident in
their stories, poems, and songs.
Some examples of indigenous knowledge that are taught and practiced by the
indigenous people are:
• predicting weather conditions and seasons using knowledge in observing animals'
behavior and celestial bodies;
• using herbal medicine;
• preserving foods;
• classifying plants and animals into families and groups based on cultural properties
• preserving and selecting good seeds for planting;
• using indigenous technology in daily lives;
• building local irrigation systems;
• classifying different types of soil for planting based on Cultural properties;
• producing wines and juices from tropical fruits; and
• keeping the custom of growing plants and vegetables in the yard.

Indigenous Science
Indigenous science is part of the indigenous knowledge system practiced by different
groups of people and early civilizations (Gribbin, 2001; Mkapa, 2004; Sibisi, 2004). It includes
complex arrays of knowledge, expertise, practices, and representations that guide human
societies in their enumerable interactions with the natural milieu: agriculture, medicine, naming
and explaining natural phenomena, and strategies for coping with changing environments
(Pawilen, 2005). Ogawa (1995) claimed that it is collectively lived in and experienced by the
people of a given culture.
According to Cajete (2004), indigenous science includes everything, from metaphysics
to philosophy and various practical technologies practiced by indigenous peoples both past and
present. laccarino (2003) elaborated this idea by explaining that science is a part of culture, and
how science is done largely depends on the cultural practices of the people.
Indigenous beliefs also develop desirable values that are relevant or consistent to
scientific attitudes as identified by Johnston (2000), namely: (1) motivating attitudes; (2)
cooperating attitudes; (3) practical attitudes; and (4) reflective attitudes. These cultural beliefs
therefore can be good foundation for developing positive values toward learning and doing
science and in bringing science in a personal level.
Pawilen (2005) explained that indigenous science knowledge has developed diverse
structures and contents through the interplay between the Society and the environment.
According to Kuhn (1962), developmental Stages of most sciences are characterized by
continual competition between number of distinct views of nature, each partially derived from,
and all roughly compatible with the dictates of scientific observation and method. Sibisi (2004)
also pointed out that indigenous science provides the basics of astronomy, pharmacology, food
technology, or metallurgy, which were derived from traditional knowledge and practices.

THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS

1. What is your understanding of indigenous science?

2. What are examples of indigenous science practices?


3. Why do some people believe in indigenous science?

4. Do you think indigenous science should be considered science?

5. What is the role of indigenous science in the development of science and technology?

Pawilen (2006) developed a simple framework for understanding indigenous science.


Accordingly, indigenous science is composed of traditional knowledge that uses science
process skills and guided by community values and culture.

Figure 6. The Concept of Indigenous Science

1. Indigenous science uses Science process skills such as observing, comparing,


classifying, measuring, problem solving, inferring, communicating, and predicting.
2. Indigenous science is guided by culture and community values such as the following:
• The land is a source of life. It is a precious gift from the creator.
• The Earth is revered as "Mother Earth." It is the origin of their identity as people.
• All living and nonliving things are interconnected and interdependent with each
other.
• Human beings are stewards or trustee of the land and other natural resources. They
have a responsibility to preserve it.
• Nature is a friend to human beings-it needs respect and proper care.
3. Indigenous science is composed of traditional knowledge practiced and valued by
people and communities such as ethno-biology, ethno-medicine, indigenous farming
methods, and folk astronomy.

Indigenous science is important in the development of science and technology in the


Philippines. Like the ancient civilizations, indigenous science gave birth to the development of
science and technology as a field and as a discipline. Indigenous science helped the people in
understanding the natural environment and in coping with everyday life. UNESCO's
Declaration on Science and the Use of Scientific Knowledge (1999) recognized indigenous
Science as a historical and valuable contribution to science and technology.

SUMMARY
This lesson discussed the concept of indigenous knowledge and its influence to the
development of indigenous science. The communities in the Philippines have maintained vast
amounts of indigenous knowledge, cultural practices, traditions, and beliefs. These include
beliefs and practices ranging from different areas such as health, environment, peace and order,
agriculture, food production, astronomy, music, and literature. The indigenous knowledge
system of the people served as the foundation for the development of indigenous science.
Even before the time of the Spanish colonization in the Philippines, various people and
communities already practiced science. They invented tools and built structures, studied the
medicinal uses of plants, observed heavenly bodies to predict seasons and weather, and used
indigenous science in agriculture. These are considered indigenous science, which is one of the
foundations of modern science.

THINK ABOUT THESE QUESTIONS

1. What is the role of indigenous knowledge in the development of indigenous science?

2. What is the role of indigenous science in the development of science and technology in the
Philippines?

3. How do society and culture influence the development of Science and technology?

ACTIVITY

1. Identify Filipino indigenous knowledge.


2. Research on the connection of indigenous knowledge to science and technology.
3. Present the result of your work in a PowerPoint presentation

LESSON 6 Government Laws, Policies, Plans and Projects Pertaining to Science and
Technology

Learning Outcomes
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
• describe the science and technology environment from 1986-2016;
• Identity government laws, policies, plans and projects pertaining to science and
technology;
• have a glimpse of the status of science and technology and plans for its development
under President Rodrigo Roa Duterte; and
• Appraise their contribution to the development of science and technology in the county.

Introduction
The role that science and technology has played in improving the life and conditions of
people in the world is vivid. Because the Philippines Is a developing country, the status of
science and technology in our country is still below par when compared with countries like
Japan and USA. There is a great need therefore to enact more laws and strengthen existing ones
to improve science and technology includin9 research and development in the country.
Science and Technology Environment from 1986 to 2016
President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino highlighted the importance of science and
technology in achieving economic progress. She helped establish the Department of Science
and Technology (DOST) which formulated the Science and Technology Master Plan 1991-
2000. At that time, the Philippines aimed to be a Newly Industrialized Country (NIC).
Succeeding presidents have had their fair share of policies geared towards improving
the sector. President Fidel v. Ramos introduced laws on inventors' incentives and science and
technology scholarships while President Glora Macapagal Arroyo adopted policies focusing
on a national innovation system and promoted technological entrepreneurship under the
Medium-Term Development Plan 2004-2010.
The most recent National Science and Technology Plan 2002-2020 is largely focused
on building technological self-reliance. Meanwhile, the Harmonized Agenda tor science and
technology presented to President Benigno Aquino in 2014 highlighted two critical issues:
inclusive growth and disaster risk reduction.
Critical technologies to address these issues have been developed and this include LiDAR
processing, remote sensing and microsatellites (DIWATA-1).

Government Policies and Laws Pertaining to Science and Technology


To improve and strengthen science and technology including research development, it
is necessary that government enact laws. Several laws have been enacted by Congress since
1958 to present. They are as follows:
• R.A. 2067- “Science Act of 1958”- An Act To Integrate, Coordinate and Intensify
Scientific and Technological Research and Development and lo Foster Invention To
Provide Funds Therefore and for Other Purposes
• R.A. 3589- An Act Amending RA 2067 Modifying the National Science Development
Board, National Institute of Science and Technology, and the Philippine Atomic Energy
Commission, Extending Tax Exemption, Privileges and Grants, Requests and
Donations for Scientific Purposes to Private Educational Institutions and For Other
Purposes enacted June 22, 1963.
• R.A. 5207- An Act Providing for the Licensing and Regulation of Atomic Energy
Facilities and Materials, Establishing the Rules of Liability for Nuclear Damage and
for Other Purposes.
This Act was approved June 15, 1968 to encourage, promote, and assist the development
and use of atomic energy for peaceful purposes as a means to improve the health and prosperity
of the inhabitants of the Philippines and to contribute and accelerate scientific, technological,
agricultural, commercial, and industrial progress.
• Presidential Decree No. 49, s. 1972 established the Philippine Atmospheric,
Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA). Its function was to provide
environmental protection and to utilize scientific knowledge to ensure the safety of the
people.
• Presidential Decree No. 334, s. 1973 created the Philippine National Oil Company to
promote industrial and economic development through effective and efficient use of
energy resources.
• R.A. 8749 The Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 was enacted by Congress on June 23,
1999 to protect and preserve the environment and ensure the Sustainable development
of its natural resources.
• R.A. 8792- An Act Providing for the Recognition and Use of Electronic Commercial
and Non-commercial Transactions and Documents, Penalties for Unlawful Use Thereof
and For Other Purposes passed in June 15, 2000.
This Act aims to facilitate domestic and international dealings, transactions, assignment,
agreements, contracts and exchanges and storage of information through the utilization of
electronic, optical and similar medium mode, instrumentality and technology to recognize the
width and reliability or electronic documents related to such activities and to promote the
universal use or electronic transactions in the government and the general public.
• R.A. 9367- “Biofuels Act of 2006”- An Act to Direct the Use of Biofuels, Establishing
for this Purpose the Biofuel Program, Appropriating Funds Therefore, And For Other
Purposes.
This Act was enacted by Congress on June 12, 2007 to develop and utilize indigenous
and sustainable sources, clean energy sources to reduce dependence on imported oil.
• R.A. 9513- “The Renewable Act of 2008” was passed by Congress to accelerate the
development of the country's renewable energy resources by providing fiscal and non-
fiscal incentives to private investors and equipment
manufacturers/fabricators/suppliers.
• R.A. 10175 - Philippine cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 passed September 12,
2012. An Act Defining Cybercrime, Providing for the Prevention, Investigation,
Suppression and the Imposition of Penalties Therefore and For Other Purposes
• R.A. 10612- An Act Expanding the Coverage of the Science and Technology
Scholarship Program and Strengthening the Teaching of Science and Mathematics in
Secondary Schools and For Other Purposes.
This Act shall be known as the Fast-Tracked Science and Technology Scholarship Act of
2018. It shall strengthen the country's Science and technology education by fast-tracking
graduates in the science, mathematics, and engineering who shall teach in secondary schools
throughout the country. Towards this end, scholarships shall be provided to finance the
education of talented and deserving students in the third year of college and pursuing a degree
or training in the areas of science and technology and to provide incentives for them to pursue
a career in teaching in high schools in their home regions.
• R.A. 10844 An Act Creating the Department of Information and Communication
Technology (DICT) which was signed into law on May 23, 2016.
In accordance with the law, the Department of Information and Communications
Technology (DICT) shall be the primary policy planning, coordination, implementing, and
administrative entity of the Executive branch of the government that will plan, develop, and
promote the national ICT development agenda.

Major Science and Technology Development Plans


• Science and Technology Master Plan (STMP). This plan was submitted to the
President in March 1989 by the presidential task force composed of the Department of
Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of
Trade Industry (DTI), Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), as
well as the presidential adviser on public resources and three academic institutions
directly involved in S & T. The development or Fifteen (15) leading edges to steer the
country toward industrial development were. (1) aquaculture and (2) marine fisheries,
(3) Forestry and (4)) natural resources, (5) process industry, (6) food and (7) feed
industry, (8) energy, (9) transportation, (10) construction industry, (11) information
technology, (12) electronics, (13) instrumentation and control, (14) emerging
technologies, 10 pharmaceuticals.
To attain the objectives set in the STMP the following strategies were pursued: modernize
the production sectors through massive technology transfer from domestic and foreign sources;
upgrade the R& D capability through intensified activities in high priority sector and S&T
infrastructure development such as manpower development; and develop information
networks, institutional building and S&T culture development.
• Science and Technology Agenda for National Development (STAND Philippines
2000. This plan was initiated during the term of President Ramos and emo00ied the
country's technology development plan in the medium term, in particular, for the period
1993-1998. The STAND identified seven export winners, 11 domestic needs, three
other supporting industries, and coconut industry as priority investment area. The seven
identified export winners were computer software, fashion accessories; gifts, toys, and
housewares; marine products; metal fabrications; furniture; and dried fruits. The
domestic needs included food, housing, health, clothing, transportation,
communication, disaster mitigation, defense, environment, manpower development
and energy. Because of their linkages with the above sectors, three additional support
industries were included in the list of priority sectors, namely: packaging, chemicals,
and metals. Lastly, because of its strategic importance, the coconut industry was
included in ne list.
• National Science and Technology Plan (NSTP 2002-2020). The Department of
Science and Technology (D0ST), with the mandate of formulating S&T policies,
programs, and projects in support of national development priorities has remained,
driven by these guiding visions stated in the NSTP mainly:

By 2004, S&T shall have contributed significantly to the enhancement of national


productivity and competitiveness and to the solution of pressing problems.

By 2010, the Philippines shall have earned niches and become a world class knowledge
provider and user in selected science and technology areas, and shall have developed a
vibrant S&T Culture.

By 2020, the Philippines shall have developed a wide range of globally competitive
products and services which have a high technological content.

The 12 priority areas for S&T development are:


a) Agriculture, forestry & natural resources;
b) Health and medical services;
c) Biotechnology;
d) Information and Communication Technology;
e) Microelectronics;
f) Materials, science and engineering;
g) Earth and marine services;
h) Fisheries and aquaculture
i) Environment;
j) Natural disaster mitigation;
k) Energy; and
l) Manufacturing and service engineering.

Status of Science and Technology and Plans for Development under President Rodrigo
Roa-Duterte
The Duterte administration reassured its commitment to science, technology and
innovation sector. This was established in the increase in the budget of the Department of
Science and Technology (DOST). In a speech of President Duterte delivered by Budget
Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno during the opening of the National Science and Technology
Week 2017, he stated that the budget of DOST has quadrupled in the last seven years "from
P50 billion in 2010 to P208 billion in 2017. The budget for research and development grew by
nearly 6X over the same period of time from P1 billion in 2009 to P5.8 billion in 2017. This
was disclosed in his speech during the celebration of the National Science and Technology
Week at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on July 11, 2017,
In the 10-point economic agenda, the promotion of science, technology and creative
arts was included to enhance innovation and creative capacity towards self- sustaining inclusive
development. S&T must create an avenue for development in various sectors, such as in the
economy.
DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Pena identified the focus of the Department as
Technology transfer and commercialization thus ten percent of its overall budget was allocated
for technology transfer. This resulted to generation of 1000 new intellectual properties that can
be adopted in just one year.
Major accomplishments of the Duterte administration are:
• Entry into the frontiers of Space through its support to the Philippine Space Technology
Program. DIWATA-1 satellites which was launched in 2016 was made by Filipino
scientists who were trained in Japan. The DIWATA-2 which will be launched in 2018
has improved the capabilities to better monitor the country. This was made by another
batch of Filipino scientists. This space technologies can also be utilized in other sectors,
such as in agriculture and disaster preparedness
• A Memorandum of Agreement between Russia and the Philippines regarding the space
program will soon materialize.
• Republic Act 11035 “An Act Institutionalizing the Balik Scientist Program” was signed
into law by the President on June 15, 2018. This law would give more incentives to
returning Filipino experts, Scientists, Inventors, and engineers who would share their
expertise in the country.
• On telecommunication, Department of Information and Communication Technology,
National Telecommunication Commission and telecommunication companies have
agreed to standardize voice call charges to P2.50.
• On weather, 271 new weather stations were installed by the Department of Science and
Technology throughout the country. The Zamboanga Doppler Weather Radar System
was also installed.

ASSESSMENT TASKS
A. Discussion Question
1. Prepare a listing with brief explanation of government policies in relation to the
development and functions of science and technology.

REFLECTION

B. Write your personal reaction to the major accomplishments of the Duterte


administration on its plan for development. Attach clippings from newspapers or
magazines or you can cite and screenshot an accurate article to support your views.

References and Links

Clayden, Jonathan, Nick Greeves, Stuart Warren and P. Wothers 2000. Organic Chemistry.
Oxford University Press, USA.

Klein, David. 2016. Organic Chemistry. 3ed. Wiley and Sons.

De Guzman, D.F., Delos Reyes, M. G., and Espinosa, A. A., 2012. Discover Science
Chemistry, DIWA Learning Systems Inc., pp. 171-305.

Bodner, G. M., Rickard, L. H., and Spencer, J. N., 2008. Chemistry: Structure and Dynamics,
John

Wiley and Sons Inc., pp. 37-43, 221-234

T.W. Graham Solomons and Craig B. Fryhle. (2011). Organic Chemistry. John Wiley & Sons,
Inc.

Ungson, Olivia B. and Fornias, Virginia R., 2010. Science, Environment, Technology and
Society: Chemistry, Sibs Publishing House, Inc., pp. 214-395

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