As someone deeply interested in the intersection of education and technology, I recently had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Ryan Evangelista, a distinguished IT consultant, educator, and advocate for innovation in education. Dr. Evangelista’s extensive experience spans enterprise systems development, IT project management, and government projects in both the Philippines and Singapore. He is also the Vice President for Industry and Linkages of the Philippine Society for Engineering Education and holds multiple professional certifications, including being an ASEAN Engineering Technologist and Professional Computer Engineer. Beyond his impressive credentials, what stood out most during our conversation was his passion for empowering others through education and technology.
Our discussion revolved around how technology is reshaping education, the challenges of adapting to rapid advancements like artificial intelligence (AI), and the importance of preparing students for the future workforce. Dr. Evangelista’s insights were not only thought-provoking but also inspiring, as he shared his vision for a more adaptive and forward-thinking education system. Here, I’ll share the key takeaways from our conversation and the lessons I learned from this remarkable educator.
A Passion for Education and Empowerment
One of the first things that struck me about Dr. Evangelista was his deep commitment to education and his desire to help others succeed. He shared how his journey began during his university days when he actively participated in student organizations and societies. These experiences taught him the value of collaboration, mentorship, and learning from others. Even as a student, he was already driven by the idea of being competitive and continuously improving himself.
Dr. Evangelista’s passion for teaching was solidified when he became a professor after graduating. He described how he enjoyed making lessons relevant and engaging for his students, which eventually led to his long-standing career in education. However, his journey didn’t stop there. He ventured into the IT industry, working in Singapore and gaining valuable insights into the global workforce. Despite his success in the industry, his heart remained in education. He continued to mentor and inspire students, even as he balanced his professional responsibilities.
What truly stood out was his initiative to establish the Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines (ICPEP) Singapore in 2017. Dr. Evangelista saw a gap in the support system for Filipino IT professionals working abroad. Many of them faced challenges in upgrading their skills due to the high cost of training and the competitive nature of the global workforce. ICPEP Singapore was his way of addressing these issues, providing affordable training programs and fostering a sense of community among Filipino professionals. This initiative not only helped individuals improve their careers but also created a culture of "bayanihan" (community spirit) among Filipinos in Singapore.
The Role of Technology in Education
As our conversation shifted to the role of technology in education, Dr. Evangelista emphasized how it has become a powerful tool for transformation. He highlighted the need for education systems to adapt to the rapid advancements in technology, particularly AI. According to him, the traditional methods of teaching and learning are no longer sufficient to prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.
One of the key points he raised was the importance of integrating AI into education rather than banning it. He acknowledged the concerns of teachers and parents who worry that students might rely too heavily on tools like ChatGPT for assignments and exams. However, he argued that banning AI would only leave students unprepared for the realities of the industry, where AI tools are widely used. Instead, he suggested that educators should focus on teaching students how to use AI responsibly and creatively.
Dr. Evangelista shared an example from his own teaching experience. He explained how he designs exam questions that require higher-order thinking skills, making it difficult for students to rely solely on AI-generated answers. For instance, he might present a complex scenario and ask students to analyze it before arriving at a solution. This approach not only challenges students to think critically but also ensures that they truly understand the concepts being taught.
Adapting to the Changing Landscape of Education
One of the most compelling parts of our discussion was Dr. Evangelista’s perspective on how education must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements. He described education as a "living organism" that constantly evolves with each industrial revolution. We are now in the era of Industry 4.0, characterized by AI, automation, and digital transformation. According to Dr. Evangelista, the Victorian-era education model, which focused on rote memorization and standardized testing, is no longer applicable in today’s world.
He stressed the need for continuous education and professional development, not just for students but also for teachers. Many educators, he noted, are still clinging to traditional methods that may have worked in the past but are no longer effective in preparing students for the future. Dr. Evangelista called for a shift in mindset, encouraging teachers to embrace new technologies and methodologies that foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
One of the challenges he highlighted is the gap between the skills taught in schools and the skills needed in the industry. For example, he observed that many IT and engineering graduates in the Philippines lack exposure to AI and other emerging technologies, putting them at a disadvantage in the global job market. To address this, he advocates for closer collaboration between the education sector and the industry. By aligning curricula with industry needs, schools can ensure that graduates are equipped with relevant skills and knowledge.
The Power of AI in Education
Dr. Evangelista’s views on AI were particularly insightful. He described AI as a "two-edged sword" that can be used positively or negatively, depending on how it is integrated into education. Rather than fearing AI, he believes we should harness its potential to enhance learning and teaching. For instance, AI can be used to personalize education, providing students with tailored learning experiences based on their strengths and weaknesses.
However, he also emphasized the importance of teaching students to think critically and creatively, skills that AI cannot replicate. He shared how he incorporates case studies and video assignments into his teaching, requiring students to analyze real-world scenarios and present their findings. This approach not only develops their analytical skills but also prepares them for the challenges of the workplace.
Dr. Evangelista also pointed out that AI is already transforming various industries, from agriculture to cybersecurity. He shared examples of how countries like Singapore are using AI to address food security challenges through innovative technologies like aquaponics and vertical farming. These advancements highlight the need for education systems to prepare students for a future where AI plays a central role in solving complex problems.
The Need for a Forward-Thinking Education System
One of the most important lessons I learned from Dr. Evangelista is the need for a forward-thinking education system that prepares students for the jobs of the future. He stressed that education should not only focus on technical skills but also on adaptability, creativity, and lifelong learning. In a rapidly changing world, these qualities are essential for success.
Dr. Evangelista also highlighted the importance of execution. He noted that while Filipinos are excellent planners, they often struggle with execution. This, he said, is something that needs to be addressed at the educational level. By fostering a culture of action and innovation, schools can produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of turning ideas into reality.
Final Thoughts
My conversation with Dr. Ryan Evangelista was both enlightening and inspiring. His passion for education, his commitment to empowering others, and his forward-thinking approach to technology left a lasting impression on me. He reminded me that education is not just about imparting knowledge but also about preparing students to navigate an ever-changing world.
As we move forward, it is clear that technology will continue to play a central role in shaping education. By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration between the education sector and the industry, and equipping students with the skills they need to succeed, we can create a brighter future for the next generation. Dr. Evangelista’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that change is not only necessary but also possible—and it starts with us.
To educators, students, and policymakers alike, let us take inspiration from Dr. Evangelista’s vision and work together to build an education system that is not only relevant but also transformative. The future is here, and it’s up to us to shape it.
To watch the full video visit: https://youtu.be/ujqFPvd2lPg
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