In support of the University of Southeastern Philippines’ (USeP) internationalization initiatives and its commitment to developing globally competent educators, 30 students from the Master of Arts in Mathematics Education (MAME) program embarked on an International Educational Tour (IET) in Taiwan on October 27 to October 31, 2025.

The academic engagement, led by Dr. Roar A. Callaman, alongside Dr. Joe Vincent B. Deluao, aimed to expose MAME students to international best practices in teaching, learning, and research—particularly in the field of mathematics education. Over the course of a week, the delegation visited four distinguished educational institutions: the National Chin-Yi University of Technology (NCUT), the Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology (STUST), the Zhu Zi Keng Bilingual Elementary School, and the National Taichung University of Education (NTCU).

The tour commenced at the NCUT in Taichung City, where the USeP delegation, alongside guests from De La Salle University, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Aaron See. In his presentation, Dr. See discussed NCUT’s institutional priorities in innovation, applied research, and international collaboration, which have positioned the university as a leader in Taiwan’s higher education landscape. A guided campus tour followed; featuring NCUT’s laboratories specializing in robotics, automation, and mechanical design. These facilities showcased how the university integrates theoretical and practical learning to advance technology driven education. The USeP-MAME students gained meaningful insights into the integration of research, innovation, and pedagogy— key elements of NCUT’s academic excellence.

The delegation then proceeded to STUST, where they joined international students from Mexico for a collaborative academic and cultural exchange. The visit began with a formal welcome program, followed by small-group activities and presentations that allowed participants to share their reflections on Taiwan’s culture and educational system. Many USeP students expressed admiration for Taiwan’s efficient public transportation, clean environment, and high level of civic discipline, recognizing how these societal values influence educational practices and institutional effectiveness.

The USeP delegation also toured STUST’s research and development facilities, which showcased breakthroughs in machine intelligence, biomedical engineering, and assistive device technologies. These innovations demonstrated Taiwan’s strong linkage between science, mathematics, and social innovation— showcasing how technology serves as a tool for inclusion and quality of life improvement.

The third institutional visit was held at Zhu Zi Keng Bilingual Elementary School, an institution recognized for its bilingual and learner-centered approach to education. The USeP-MAME students observed classroom sessions where English and Mandarin were seamlessly integrated across subject areas, fostering linguistic proficiency and cultural appreciation among learners. During classroom observations, the delegation witnessed effective strategies in mathematics instruction, interactive learning, and digital integration, which utilized technological visual aids, group collaboration, and gamified lessons to make educational concepts more engaging and accessible.

Additionally, the delegation also learned about the school’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Program, which emphasizes holistic learning and interdisciplinary teaching. The program encourages students to apply creative and critical thinking in solving real-world problems— a model that the MAME students found particularly relevant to enhancing mathematics education in the Philippine context.

The International Educational Tour concluded at the NTCU, one of Taiwan’s premier institutions specializing in teacher education and educational research. The USeP delegation was warmly received by the faculty members of the Department of Mathematics, who presented NTCU’s initiatives on pedagogical innovation, digital education, and global collaboration. A lecture-demonstration on mathematics pedagogy and educational technology was conducted, providing participants with deeper insights into research-based teaching models and contemporary classroom practices. The visit also included a tour of NTCU’s smart classrooms where students observed how the university integrates theory, technology, and practice in preparing globally competent educators.

The International Educational Tour in Taiwan served not only as an academic exposure but also as a transformative professional experience for the MAME students. It broadened their global perspectives, deepened their understanding of cross-cultural education, and strengthened their appreciation of the role of mathematics in global development. As Dr. Callaman aptly remarked, “Education extends beyond the four walls of the classroom. By experiencing diverse academic systems, our students learn that mathematics is a universal language that connects people, ideas, and innovation.”

The USeP-MAME delegation returned to the Philippines enriched with new knowledge, global insights, and renewed dedication to uphold excellence, innovation, and inclusivity in mathematics education and beyond.