What Strand to Take for an Education Course in the Philippines?
Are you planning on becoming a teacher? If so, your senior high school (SHS) strand is an important consideration.
In the Philippine education system, SHS students (grades 11 and 12) select an academic strand that often matches their career goals. You don’t have to follow suit and pick one that precisely aligns with your prospective college course. However, doing so helps since you’ll gain a fundamental understanding of your future field of study.
The best strand for an education course depends on your specialization as a teacher. With that in mind, let’s review different senior high strands for teachers to help you choose the right option.
Education Strands in the Philippines
Check out these education course strands and determine which one aligns with your prospective specialization when you finally become a teacher.
Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS)
HUMSS and an education course are perfect if you want to become a social science, politics, literature, or arts teacher. It’ll equip you with the skills to teach human behavior, society, and culture. By choosing HUMSS, you’ll develop communication and critical thinking skills essential to any liberal arts field.
Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM)
If you’re a business and finance aficionado, consider taking ABM to prepare you for college. It covers subjects like accounting, economics, and entrepreneurship. ABM might seem less directly related to traditional education subjects. Still, it’s beneficial if you plan on teaching business-related courses to high school students.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
STEM is ideal for students who like scientific and technical fields like biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and technology. Its rigorous training in analytical and problem-solving skills prepares you to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.
Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL)
Unlike the rest, TVL leans more toward students wishing to gain practical skills and knowledge they can apply directly to the workforce after graduating from senior high. For instance, some students specialize in agri-fishery arts, while others focus on information and communications technology (ICT).
TVL is ideal for prospective technical-vocational education and training (TVET) educators.
General Academic Strand (GAS)
Still undecided about which specific track to take? GAS offers a broad range of subjects in different fields. As such, it’s a good option for future educators who want to explore other fields of study before committing to a specialization. It’s also an ideal choice if you’re willing to teach multiple subjects upon licensure.
How to Choose the Right Strand for Education Course
By following these steps, you can pick a strand that aligns with your interests and goals, paving the way for a successful future in teaching.
1. Consider your career goals
Are you passionate about teaching science, or are you more into entrepreneurship? Understanding your long-term career aspirations will help you choose a strand that takes you closer to your goals. For example, if you want to become a science teacher, STEM would be more appropriate than, say, HUMSS or ABM.
2. Identify your strengths and weaknesses
Take a moment to assess your academic strengths and weaknesses. Which subjects do you excel in, and which do you find challenging? While you may choose any strand you want with no strings attached to your future college course, it’s better to pick one that plays to your strengths.
3. Explore the course content
Familiarize yourself with each strand’s curriculum to see if they interest you and align with your career goals. As mentioned, GAS teaches you a broad range of subjects, yet it lacks the specialization necessary to become well-versed in your chosen field, unlike TVL or HUMSS.
4. Look for top schools
Not all schools are alike. Some schools have a stronger focus or better resources for certain strands, like how a tech school would be better for TVL-ICT. So, look for institutions with a good reputation, experienced faculty, and solid support systems for students in your chosen strand.
5. Seek advice from teachers and counselors
Teachers and academic counselors have valuable insights into each strand’s strengths and can guide you based on your school performance and career goals. For example, educators familiar with your capabilities may recommend which strand suits you.
6. Take into account feedback from former students
Reach out to former students and ask about their experiences in the strands you’re considering. They could be a friend, a former schoolmate, a family member, or a stranger you found online. Their feedback will give you a realistic view of what to expect and help you understand the pros and cons of each.
7. Research extracurriculars
Like junior high school, extracurriculars make your SHS experience more worthwhile. For example, STEM might offer capstone projects for senior high students. At the same time, HUMSS may have a debate team—a perfect training ground for research and communication skills.
8. Explore potential career opportunities
Lastly, consider the job opportunities associated with each strand. While your ultimate goal is to become a teacher, what you pick might open several doors within the field of education. You could become a teacher-lawyer defending educators’ rights or a teacher-psychologist furthering your field.
Prepare for Your Future in College
Pursuing a teaching career is a rewarding path where you can shape future generations and positively impact society. To set yourself up for success as an educator, thoughtfully choose the SHS strand that matches your skills and aspirations. With careful planning and a clear focus on your goals, you’ll be well-prepared for a fulfilling career in education.
After graduating from senior high, consider advancing your studies with a Bachelor of Secondary Education or early education courses at the Trinity University of Asia. Our programs are designed to jumpstart your career and help you become an impactful educator.
Contact us today for inquiries or admissions. This can be your starting point towards a fulfilling future in teaching!
