Open learning and ASEAN integration

IN

a few months, we shall become part of the ASEAN economic integration network. We had been preparing for this, fully aware of both our advantages as well as our limitations. What comes to mind is how we can utilize open distance learning or ODL in promoting inter- regional cooperation or what is described as regional harmonization, now possible through use of information and communication technology.

Last year, we passed the law expanding access to educational services by institutionalizing ODL in tertiary education. Senator Pia Cayetano, chair of the Senate Committee on Education, noted that our overseas workers, working students, PWDs or persons with disabilities who seek further studies, could benefit from this program. It would also be an ideal vehicle in fostering continuing exchange and dialogue among the ASEAN countries. The availability of the ODL. its content, as well as a team of trained facilitator- teachers would be an excellent resource for the cooperative network. An added advantage is that the facilitators are fluent in English, the major language of communication in the ASEAN region.

According to the ODL law, RA 10650, it shall be the state’s policy to expand and further democratize access to tertiary education through promotion and application of open learning as a philosophy of access to educational services. Distance education is a mode of learning where students and teachers are physically separated; it is studentcentered and often described as flexible and distributed learning. The programs are delivered using information and communication technology and other channels such as ( 1) print – textbooks, study guides, workbooks, courses, syllabi, correspondence; ( 2) audiovisual – radio, audiocassettes, slides, films, videotapes, TV, telephone, fax, audio, and videoconferencing; ( 3) electronic- computer technology and virtual classrooms such as Internet, CD- Rom, electronic mail, e- learning or online management systems, and face- to- face sessions. UP Open University ( UPOU) shall assist and provide expertise to the CHED and TESDA and provide leadership and promote best practices as well as assist other universities.

Sabio and Sabio ( 2013), in a paper published by the Asian Journal of Distance Education, provided a comprehensive review of challenges and prospects facing distance education in the country. Among others, they reviewed the legal bases of distance learning found in the Constitution, namely that “the State shall establish, maintain, and support a complete, adequate, and integrated system of education relevant to the needs of the people and society… and that the State shall encourage non- formal, informal, and indigenous learning systems as well as self- learning, independent, and out- of- school study programs, particularly those that respond to community needs.”

Among pioneers of distance learning in the country, they say, are Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Pamantasan ng Lungsod sa Manila, Philippine Women’s University, Central Luzon University, and CAP College.

CAP College, one of the earliest ODL pioneers, was established in 1988 and patterned after the “open university” concept. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees that are recognized by the Commission on Higher Education ( CHED). Former CHED Chairman Angel Alcala who is dean of CAP College heads the Board of Trustees consisting of present and former government and academic leaders. It utilizes the Internet for its online registration, downloading of instructional materials, online tutorials, individualized folders for students and links to career sites. Its ladderized program where one can obtained an Associate in Arts is recognized by TESDA. Its CAP College for the Deaf offers bachelor’s and associate in arts degrees as well. CAP College has produced a number of alumni who have been recognized for exemplary achievements. One alumnus is a police officer, a Metrobank awardee; another was Renato Cruz and his wife ( both deaf) who, with their children, were one of the three families chosen to meet Pope Francis.