New Educational Approach: Blended Distance Learning

Glenn P. Ocampo

At this point in our lives, we are living in the middle of what is probably one of the greatest menaces in our education, an educational crisis due of the global pandemic “Covid 19”, causing over millions of learners to struggle in their educational learning not only in the Philippines but also around the globe.

This crisis we are in, prevent the learners to fully grasp the fundamental skills they need to acquire. The traditional classroom settings were cut – off, holding-up normal classes to reduce the spread of the virus, of which resulted in starting the school year late.

Hence, the Department of Education along with other institutes in the globe paves way to this so called “new normal set-up in education”. Varieties of approaches in learnings were addressed and integrated to cope up with the rising educational crisis. One of which is what we call ‘Blended Distance Learning’.

What is “Blended Distance Learning”? This type of program is the combination of teaching approaches of using printed or digital modules, online learning resources, and radio/TV-based instructions. Through this blended distance learning, the Department of Education specifically the educators, can provide the learners an instant way of learning.

The program relies on the use of technology (multi-media, different social platforms, etc.) which are accessible online, and printed modules/activity sheets to be delivered to the learners’ convenience. With the ease of access, learners can master at their own pace and achieve the necessary knowledge and skills that best fits their individual learning styles.

In this mode of learning, learners can able to complete their education or training programs in due time. Essentially, they can complete the task given to them more effectively because self-paced learning takes the stress out of the equation.

To guide teachers, parents, and learners in the conduct of this program as the country alters into the new normal, the schools here in the Philippines are already preparing for the application of this new approach in education. Teachers are attending various webinars, as well as parents and students who are having an online orientation in preparation for this school year 2020-2021. With all these groundworks, the schools will be able to cater education continuity and assure health and welfare of learners, parents and teachers throughout the pandemic.

The author is a Teacher

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III at Angeles City National Trade School.