Teaching Teachers through Technology

Today’s generation grew up in the age of technology that it has become a natural tool for learning. While traditional methods equip students with the knowledge they need, the use of technology enables students to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world setting. However, more than how technology has transformed learning, the bigger challenge is how educators today who are less tech-savvy than their students can maximize the potential of technology in the classroom.

This is the very challenge that Acer strives to overcome for education in the Philippines. Over 100 schools and universities have partnered with one of the top ICT companies in the world through Acer Academy. The program provides educational institutions around the country access to quality hardware, software and services that can improve the learning system of future professionals. 

Aside from coding, teachers also tested some of the 8-application package in the CloudProfessor kit such as the temperature and light sensors, and fans that hones students’ creativity and critical thinking.

Hands-on learning and training were given to educators for them to understand how the Internet of Things work and how CloudProfessor makes programming and coding easier for students.

Alex De Guzman, Business Development Manager of Acer Philippines Inc. (leftmost), and Kevin Chuang Business Development Manager of Acer Asia Pacific (rightmost) hosted the Train the Trainer program for the faculty of Asian College of Technology. Teachers learned how to use Acer’s IoT sandbox, the CloudProfessor

“Aside from accessing our products and services, our partner schools can also maximize our expertise and knowledge about the industry. As a leader in IT, we believe it is important to help bridge the gap of using technology in teaching by training educators how to maximize available tools that capture students’ interests,” said Managing Director of Acer Philippines, Manuel Wong.

Acer Academy provides innovative delivery of education by digitizing teaching tools such as online syllabi, web-based worksheets and modules and electronically programmed learning activities. With the help of these tools, educators adapt effective teaching methods. At the same time, students are provided the opportunity to learn skills that can be relevant to their future professions.

This complements the Department of Education’s (DepEd) drive for the use of technology in improving the country’s education system. The DepEd’s ICT roadmap aims to transform the education landscape in the Philippines through technology, including the introduction of gamification or the use of gaming in giving instructions to students. More public schools can soon learn coding and robotics programs that are fundamental to students as they enter the information age. For this to happen, educators need to be adequately trained and well-adapted to the new learning environment that technology has created.

“For the Philippines to keep up with the demands of the global workforce and the changing times, it’s important for both private and public organizations to work together in providing access to technology to improve the country’s education system. With the innovations we can share, we are proud partners of the academe in future-proofing the next generation’s careers and it starts with Acer Academy,” said Wong in support for the developments in the education system.