DOST 1 Reshapes LU Learning Experience from Books to Bytes Through STARBOOKS

August 21, 2024

by DOST 1 - Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. 1

by: Anthony Ian H. Reyes

In a rapidly digitizing world, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is leading a groundbreaking initiative to transform education in the Philippines through its STARBOOKS program. Developed by DOST-STII and supported by DOST Regional Office 1 (DOST 1), STARBOOKS is enhancing educational resources across the country, with La Union emerging as a prime example of this transformation. While DOST 1 has been deploying STARBOOKS in La Union for years, 2024 has seen several new deployments that expand the reach of this innovative resource.

The year’s STARBOOKS journey began on January 24, 2024, at the Lingsat Rullaniana Library Parklet in San Gabriel. Retired nurse Mr. Eleazar M. Rullan’s passion for reading and lifelong learning led to the integration of STARBOOKS Online into the library, providing the community with a wealth of digital resources. “We want to make sure that our community has easy access to knowledge in this digital age,” Mr. Rullan stated, emphasizing the library's commitment to merging tradition with modern technology.

The initiative gained momentum with San Gabriel Vocational High School’s adoption on March 1, 2024. The school held an orientation and training session led by Mr. Anthony Ian Reyes and Engr. Bernadine Suniega. Head Teacher III Deo Tarnate highlighted STARBOOKS' potential to enhance research and learning, even in areas with limited internet access, marking a significant step towards a more tech-savvy educational environment.

On March 15, 2024, Pugo Central National High School joined STARBOOKS, with an MOU signing that showcased the school’s dedication to integrating digital resources into its curriculum. PSTO-LU Provincial Director Mr. Jonathan M. Viernes and Principal Ross U. Rivera praised STARBOOKS for its positive impact on academic performance, underscoring its potential to transform learning experiences.

Prime Aces College, Incorporated, in Bauang, La Union, joined the STARBOOKS network on March 22, 2024, marking a significant advancement in blending traditional and digital resources. College President Mr. Keneth N. Gozun and Mr. Jonathan M. Viernes led the MOU signing, reflecting the college’s forward-thinking approach.

The momentum continued as Eulogio Clarence De Guzman Jr. Vocational National High School (ECDGJNHS) joined on May 30, 2024, with Principal Dr. Jennifer B. Mejia and nineteen teachers participating in an MOU signing, orientation, and training session led by Ms. Katrina Ronquillo and Mr. Anthony Ian Reyes.

Union Christian College (UCC) in San Fernando City, La Union, became the latest institution to adopt STARBOOKS on August 1, 2024. The event, attended by 323 faculty members and students, highlighted the platform's broad material and user-friendly interface, with notable attendees acknowledging the boost STARBOOKS will bring to the college’s educational offerings.

The STARBOOKS initiative stands as a testament to DOST's commitment to modernizing education and making high-quality resources accessible nationwide. In La Union, STARBOOKS is paving the way for a new era of technology-driven education, with DOST 1’s ongoing efforts aiming to enhance educational quality, spark interest in science and technology, and encourage students to pursue STEM careers and become DOST scholars. The story of STARBOOKS in La Union is one of progress and innovation, bringing the vision of a digitally empowered educational landscape closer to reality.

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