In this episode of Overthought Podcast, we discuss DepEd’s move to gradually remove grade transmutation and raise the passing raw score in Philippine schools.

Grade transmutation is the process of converting a learner’s computed raw grade into the reported grade that appears on the report card. For years, this meant that a lower raw score could still be converted into a passing grade. But as DepEd moves away from this system, schools are now being challenged to make grades reflect actual learning more directly.

We talk about why transmutation existed, how it may have hidden learning gaps, and why raising the standard is both necessary and difficult. We also discuss mass promotion, the risk of mass retention, and the deeper challenge of helping learners actually reach the higher standard.

The question is not just whether schools should raise the bar.

The real question is whether schools have the systems, habits, and support needed to help learners reach it.

This conversation explores the complex relationship between pressure and motivation in educational settings, particularly focusing on the role of tests. Peter and Kevinn discuss how pressure is often perceived negatively, yet can be transformed into motivation. They delve into the differences between scheduled and unannounced tests, the impact of parental perceptions on student anxiety, and the importance of feedback in the learning process. The conversation emphasizes the need to manage pressure effectively to foster a positive learning environment.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Pressure: A Double-Edged Sword

03:00 The Role of Tests in Education

06:01 Scheduled vs. Unannounced Tests: The Pressure Dilemma

09:11 Managing Test Anxiety and Learning Gaps

11:58 Parental Perspectives on Testing and Pressure

15:08 The Importance of Feedback and Motivation

17:50 Transforming Pressure into Positive Learning Experiences

21:06 The Impact of Grading on Student Motivation

23:57 Addressing Learning Gaps and Educational Standards

30:54 Understanding Grading Systems and Learning Gaps

32:29 Transforming Pressure into Motivation

38:05 Core Values in Education41:15 Education as Life Itself

53:01 Preparing for Uncertainty in Life

57:54 Advice for Parents and Learners

Iloilo Scholastic Academy Executive Director Peter Chan discusses the importance of reading for young children.

Overthought Podcast Episode 1: What kind of schools does the Philippines need?Iloilo Scholastic Academy Executive Director Peter Chan walks us through the current state of Philippine education and how schools should contend with the current reality.

Rofel Brion, or "Lobo" as many would like to call him, is an award-winning poet, essayist, professor, academic adviser, campus minister, spiritual guide, and friend to so, so many. After graduating with a degree in economics from Ateneo, he pursued a Masters Degree in Filipino Literature, won the Gawad Galian sa Tula Poetry Prize in 1982 before graduating in ’85. His first book of poems, Baka Sakali, won the Philippine National Book Award in 1981. In 1997, Sir Rofel received his Doctorate degree in creative writing from University of the Philippines. To date, he has written, translated, and contributed to over 10 books and compilations.

In this episode we talk about his journey as a guide, poet, and teacher, and the lessons along the way.

Music by eeryskies

Pat and Luj are some of my closest friends. Pat, who is currently in Ateneo law school, is one of the smartest and proactive people I know. Luj, who also has his own podcast (the Familyhood Podcast) and who currently works with Getcraft, is one of the most laidback but principled people I know. Both are great, great friends.

This is a different episode than usual - just three people talking and catching up. Please enjoy this Sunday afternoon conversation with Pat and Luj.

Music by eeryskies

“Your playing small does not serve the world” | Nizza is many things. Co-owner of N&N Kitchen, writer, event host, soon-to-be YouTuber, and psych major now med student now clerk currently taking medicine in West Visayas State University. She’s your type-A  and grounded over-achiever. 

In this episode, we go from high school and extra-curriculars, to college and culture, to grad school, and navigating through them all. 

Music by: pink (IG: @fuckinraisin)

“You’re all right” | Jaymes is a runner, writer, private banker at one of the largest banks in the Philippines, and he's one of the most widely-read people I know. His work has been featured in various publications, such as Esquire PH, Entrepreneur, FnB Report, Multi-sport, among others. Shrim is one of my closest friends; we’ve certainly had a fair share of going through good times and really crappy moments over the past half decade. It's been a crazy ride. Music by: pink (IG: @fuckinraisin)

“Start that first minute.“ | Miles is the co-founder and chef at JD Burger Project, where he cooks up the best burgers in the city. He’s also a chef at Mestizo, a Spanish-Mexican-Filipino fusion restaurant in Iloilo City. I’ve known MIles since we were 3 years old and in the last 20 years, he’s a huge influence on how I see life and he’s taught me a lot about what it means to be a true friend.

In this episode we explore the lessons learned from the battlefield that is the kitchen, thoughts on taking breaks, getting started, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Music by: pink (IG: @fuckinraisin)

“Know the rules like a master, break the rules like an artist” - Lance’s college songwriting professor, Jim Paredes.

Lance is a singer and songwriter and is the lead singer for the band Salazar. Currently, he’s a recruiter at a widely-known e-commerce company you've probably been victimized by during the quarantine.

Lance, who used to be one of my Ortigas constants, is one of the best listeners I know. Also a great dancer and painter, he's one of the most talented people I know. In this conversation, we talk about interviews, psychology, music, and a shared favorite show.