Distance Learning
Ma. Katrina D. Santos
The Covid-19 pandemic has totally revolutionized the Philippine educational system in all levels, so that the spread of the virus, particularly in populated schools of all ages, could be prevented and secure the health and lives of students.
In lieu of face-to-face classes, the Department of Education has and implemented online modalities, particularly distance learning which involves the use of technology like the internet and modern gadgets, and the essential participation of parents and guardians in the learning process.
Distance learning refers to a learning delivery modality where learning takes place between the teacher and the learners who are geographically remote from each other during instruction. It involves Modular Distance Learning (MDL), Online Distance Learning (ODL), and TV/Radio-Based Instruction.
Modular Distance Learning is individualized instruction that allows learners to use self-learning modules (SLMs) in print or digital format/electronic copy, whichever is applicable in the context of the learner, and other learning resources like Learner’s Materials, textbooks, activity sheets, study guides and other study materials. Learners access electronic copies of learning materials on a computer, tablet PC, or smartphone. CDs, DVDs, USB storage and computer-based applications can all be used to deliver e-learning materials, including offline E-books. The teacher takes the responsibility of monitoring the progress of the learners. The learners may ask assistance from the teacher via e-mail, telephone, text message/ instant messaging, etc. Where possible, the teacher shall do home visits to learners needing remediation or assistance. Any member of the family or other stakeholder in the community needs to serve as para-teachers.
Because it is online, distance learning becomes a form of live synchronous platform where it requires both parties to have good and stable internet connection. It is often more interactive than the other types of distance learning. The responses is real-time. The learners may download materials from the internet, complete and submit assignments online, attend webinars and virtual classes. This is practiced effectively by using a Learning Management System or related technologies. The use of DepEd Commons and LR Portal falls in this category as both requires internet connectivity to have access.
So far, since classes started last October 5, 2020, distance learning, despite some glitches in the system and minor errors in modules (which the DepEd has corrected and is continuously addressing), distance learning is proving its worth.
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The author is Teacher I at Benigno S. Aquino National High School, SDO
Tarlac Province