Erratic opening of classes
ANXIETY PREVAILS OVER the studious schoolchildren. The lazy ones are rejoicing over the extension of the opening of classes on October 5 yet but I am of the belief that it may be extended some more, citing as main reason the presence of active COVID 19 cases.
Preparations have long been made by both parents and the students. Computers of various designs and configurations have been
acquired in anticipation of the opening of classes, which may be through online, distance or virtual teleconferencing.
Now, with the expected postponement of classes, everybody concerned is confused to say the least. It has become so complicated and baffling.
Eminent columnist Federico D. Pascual, Jr., of the Philippine Star discussed the confusion surrounding the eventual opening of classes: The usual experience within the four walls of a classroom is being replaced by what education officials call 'distance learning' something akin to working from home, making online purchases, teleconferencing and said computer-aided innovations made possible by modern technology.
Distance learning is delivered through three methods-online virtual classes, on printed modules or materials or broadcast on radio and television.
The poor students are at a gross disadvantage. They could not easily acquire the
needed gadgets due to lack of financial resources.
Global rally against COVID 19. The threat of COVID 19 is ferocious and widespread. Ambassador and columnist Babes Romualdez wrote: No one— absolutely no one could have forseen a global health crisis of this magnitude whose economic and social impact has ben unprecedented.
Indeed, even the most developed countries have been sorely reeling because of this pandemi c.
Toward this slide, US infectious pxpert Dr Anthony Fauci has this admonition: We're all in the same boat, we need to pull together as a community, as a nation and as a global population. We need to row towards the same direction to reach the shore. Otherwise, we will all be swept away-wave upon waves- by this contagious disease.
Are we then up to the challenge of Dr. Fauci? Or are we content to be swept away easily by this COVID 19 disease?
We have been served major challenges before and yet we maintained our standing. With this new albeit daunting challenge, will we let ourselves absorbed by this disease? These are persistent questions needing our collective answ er s.
And yes, we shall overcome.