Blended learning
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr’s allowing blended learning in certain areas reminds us Filipinos that the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not yet over.
In the view of various quarters, including students and parents, there is still that need to address the upsurge of COVID-19 cases in some parts of the country, including Metro Manila.
In a statement after last Tuesday’s Cabinet in Malacanang, President Marcos said that blended learning can still be done in some areas given the litany of issues that might arise.
The Chief Executive from Ilocos Norte was quoted as saying that the government would be forced to continue implementing the blended learning policy beyond October.
This, he said, if key concerns in the education sector, such as supply of teachers and stable internet, are not addressed by concerned government agencies and offices.
School year 2022-23 is set to open on August 22, with a transition period of up to October 31.
Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 32, s. 2022 bans any form of “purely distance” learning and “blended learning” in any school across the country beyond October.
Quickly, the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines welcomed President Marcos decision allowing the use of blended learning in some places.
At the same time, the highly-influential coordinating council said the decision would allow the country’s private schools to further enhance their students’ learning experience.
President Marcos’ decision is understandable given the mushrooming number of COVID-19 cases in the country.
