Dry runs for blended learning conducted in public schools in more than 300 districts

Public schools in 345 districts have conducted dry runs in preparation for the resumption of classes this school year 2020-2021 on August 24, said Education Secretary Leonor Briones on Friday.

Photo credit: rmn.ph

During a COVID-19 task force meeting with the president Briones said that its been months since they have been conducting dry runs and simulations in all district using different approaches to ensure the efficiency of the different modalities once applied in the public school system. She said that definitely, the school year may start on August 24 using blended learning approach.

Blended learning approaches include learning through radio, television, online platforms and modules. 

In a survey, according to Department of Education (DepEd), more than 8.8 million parents chose modular learning as their preferred distance learning modality for the upcoming school year, with only 3.3 million opting for online learning.

Department of Education has already started printing self-learning modules for students who will be unable to participate in online classes. Also, for those who have access to the internet DepEd upgraded its "DepEd Commons".

The DepEd Commons is an online educational platform created by the department for public and private school teachers and learners to assist and support more learners and teachers in distance learning. 

Classes for the rest of 2020 this academic year will be conducted through blended learning approach, as President Duterte announced on Monday that he would not allow face-to-face classes until 2021, which when he expects a vaccine for coronavirus is already available.

According to the education secretary, 22.3 million students have enrolled for the incoming school year. She added that the public sector had an enrollment turnout of 92%, but marked low turnout from the private sector at 31%.

Although classes officially begin on August 24, Briones said the opening of the school year will be launched two weeks earlier on August 10.