Go urges DepEd to ensure quality of, access to learning modules

SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has called on the Department of Education (DepEd) anew to ensure that students have access to proper learning materials after reported errors in self-learning modules (SLMs).

Some private schools were also reported to have reproduced their own erroneous modules, including one containing entries with double meaning.

“I am urging DepEd to work double time. Please work double time because right now, studies are delayed and the modules are erroneous,” said Go in an interview at the sidelines of a turnover event of newly acquired fire trucks and firefighting equipment at the Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City on October Q5.

Go said he would not hesitate to report these erroneous matters to President Rodrigo Duterte especially those behind these materials.

Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Instruction Diosdado San Antonio said DepEd was in the process of hiring reviewers to vet the content of their SLMs.

He issued a call to the members of the public to report any errors to the department’s Public Affairs Service.

Go emphasized the importance of accuracy and appropriateness as students and parents alike face the challenging demands of online and hybrid learning.

He also lamented that many are still struggling to obtain laptops or tablets as well as reliable internet access.

He urged DepEd officials to quickly resolve the issue so time is not wasted, and students can properly study using the modules as part of the blended learning approach being implemented by public schools.

“For me, the health of the children is important. So in the meantime we have to observe the ‘No vaccine, no face-to-face classes’ because the parents will have no peace of mind if their children are out of their homes while there is no vaccine yet,” he continued.

During the same interview, Go also expressed confidence that the passage of Senate Bill 1844 would accelerate the rollout of telecommunication infrastructure needed for expanding internet penetration and improving connection speeds.

Once enacted into law, the measure, co- authored by him, will give the country’s president the authority to expedite the processing and issuance of national and local permits, licenses and certifications in times of national emergencies.