Gadgets and internet connection not a requirement for distance learning DepED said

Parents today worries about where and how will classes be managed this time of academic year. Lucky for those who have internet connection but how about those students leaving at the outskirts of town.

Despite the worries of this school year, around 17 million out of the 27 million basic education students already enrolled. Some parents used the last of their savings to buy needed gadgets for their children.

Photo credit: news.mb.com.ph

However, the Department of Education (DepED) said, teachers and students are not required to purchase gadgets like laptops, desktop or internet under the blended learning system for this school year.

Nepo Malaluan, Education Undersecretary, made the assurance of the use of Modified Modular Distance Learning program pioneered by the DepEd Navotas. It is a system wherein learners will be provided self-learning packets in print or digital format while teachers will use mobile messenger chat or text messages to monitor and track the learners.

The learning packets will include textbooks, alternative delivery mode and self-learning modules by DepEd, modules/materials prepared by Schools Division Office and schools, worksheets prepared by teachers, lesson guides for parents and guardians, other supplies and materials such as notebooks, paper, ballpens, toys and manipulatives and hygiene kits which include alcohol, soap, towels among others.

The online distance learning will only serve as a support for learners who have access to technology.

“Gusto nating i-assure na hindi natin ino-obliga na bumili sila ng gadget o magkaroon ng internet connectivity. Ito pong konseptong ito ay para maabot ang lahat ng mag-aaral, considering the situation that they have,” (We would like to assure everyone that we don't oblige them to buy gadgets or internet connection. This concept is to reach every students, considering the situation that they have.) Malaluan said. 

“The system will engage four actors: teachers, learners, parents and supervisors,”

Teacher Fati Robles of Bagumbayan Elementary School in Navotas City also assured the public that the learning packets or school in a box would be age-appropriate. The school in a box for kindergarten students will include toys and story book on top of activity packets and hygiene kit.

This school year will be full of trial and error situations. DepED is doing all the necessary things to be fully prepared. DepED asked for everyone's help to aid our students education this pandemic.