1. Science (S):This encompasses the study of the natural world and includes disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and earth sciences.
2. Technology (T):This refers to the application of scientific knowledge to create tools, devices, and systems to solve practical problems. It includes fields like computer science, information technology, and electronics.
3. Engineering (E): Engineers apply scientific and mathematical principles to design and create structures, systems, and products. Disciplines within engineering include civil, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and many others.
4. Mathematics (M): Mathematics is the language of science and technology. It involves the study of numbers, quantities, shapes, patterns, and structures. Fields within mathematics include algebra, calculus, geometry, statistics, and more.
STEM education and careers are often emphasized for their role in driving innovation, technological advancements, and economic development. Many educational programs and initiatives focus on promoting STEM learning to prepare individuals for careers in fields that require expertise in these areas. Additionally, STEM-related skills are considered essential in addressing complex challenges and driving progress in various industries.
The General Academic Strand (GAS) is one of the strands or tracks offered in the senior high school (SHS) program under the K-12 education system in the Philippines. This educational system was implemented to enhance the country's basic education by adding two years to the traditional 10-year curriculum, providing students with more time to explore various fields of study and better prepare for either higher education or the workforce.
The General Academic Strand is designed to be a flexible and well-rounded track that covers a range of academic disciplines. It doesn't have a specific focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), humanities and social sciences (HUMSS), accountancy, business, and management (ABM), or technical-vocational-livelihood (TVL) like the other specialized strands.
Students who choose the General Academic Strand typically take a combination of subjects from various domains, including mathematics, science, English, Filipino, social sciences, and humanities. This strand aims to provide students with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills, allowing them to make informed decisions about their future academic or career paths.
While students in the General Academic Strand may not specialize in a particular field to the extent that students in other strands might, they still acquire critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that are valuable in various academic and professional pursuits. After completing the senior high school program, students can choose to pursue higher education or enter the workforce based on their interests and goals.
The ABM strand is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of accountancy, business, entrepreneurship, and management. The subjects in this strand cover a range of topics related to financial management, business operations, marketing, economics, and entrepreneurship.
Key subjects in the ABM strand may include:
Accountancy: Basic principles of accounting, financial management, and business finance.
Business and Management: Fundamentals of business, organizational behavior, human resource management, and business ethics.
Applied Economics: Introduction to economic concepts and their application in business and management.
Business Ethics and Social Responsibility: Discussions on ethical considerations in business practices and the social responsibilities of businesses.
Entrepreneurship: Basics of starting and managing a business, including business planning and development.
Students who choose the ABM strand are often inclined towards pursuing degrees in business-related courses in college, such as accountancy, business administration, management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. This strand provides a solid foundation for students interested in entering the business world, whether as entrepreneurs or professionals in various business and financial roles.
Technical-Vocational-Livelihood Strand - (TVL)
The TVL track is focused on practical skills development and hands-on training. It aims to equip students with the expertise needed for specific trades and professions, allowing them to enter the workforce directly after completing the senior high school program. Additionally, TVL provides an alternative pathway for students who may not be inclined to pursue a college degree but are interested in gaining practical skills for employment.
Within the TVL track, there are various strands that students can choose from, depending on their interests and career goals. Some common strands under TVL include:
Agri-Fishery Arts: This strand focuses on agriculture and fisheries, covering topics such as crop production, animal husbandry, and fishery management.
Home Economics: This strand emphasizes practical skills related to home management, culinary arts, and other domestic and livelihood activities.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT): Students in this strand learn about computer hardware and software, networking, programming, and other IT-related skills.
Industrial Arts: This includes strands that focus on specific trades and skills, such as automotive technology, electronics, welding, and others.
Entrepreneurship: This strand is designed to develop the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship, covering aspects of business management and operations.
The TVL track provides a pathway for students to acquire technical and vocational skills, making them more competitive in the job market or enabling them to start their own businesses. It serves as an important component of the K-12 system, offering diverse educational opportunities to cater to the varied interests and career aspirations of students.