DepEd to continue dry runs on learning simulations until the class opening on Oct. 5.

On Monday, the Department of Education (DepEd) said that public school would continue to conduct dry runs on the implementation of distance learning in the weeks leading up to the opening of classes on Oct. 5

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DepEd added that the simulations would have to continue for the school to see and point out the flaws. Also, to correct and ensure the smooth implementation of the new modes of learning.

Education Secretary Leonor Briones said in the press briefing that the dry runs are going to be real so that when class opening comes, everything is in place. The dry runs are formalization of what the department already know and what they are already going to do.

More than 500 schools have already conducted distance learning dry runs in the past months. The department urged other schools which have yet to conduct simulations to start with dry runs.

DepEd said that they would also continue with the production of learning materials, and finalize educational shows to be aired on television and radio.

With the adjustment of the school opening date, the department also made changes in the academic calendar. The school year is set to end on June 16, 2021 and will have 200 school days. Christmas vacation will be from December 20 this year to January 3, 2021.

Diosdado San Antonio, undersecretary for curriculum and instruction said, the department would also recalibrate quality assurance protocols to avoid errors in learning resources.

He made the statement after several grammar and spelling errors were spotted in shows aired during the test broadcast of DepEd TV.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary for administration Alain Pascua said that they are preparing the DepEd Commons so it could accommodate up to tens of millions of users who are expected to use the online learning platform when classes begin.

The platform has 8.5 million subscribers so far, but the figure is expected to rise to up to 17 million when the school year starts, said Pascua. DepEd Common is still having an integrity test if it can accommodate all 17 million students at the same time. It is the first time students will simultaneously access the online platform.