Different Learning delivery Modalities under New Normal

Amidst CoVid-19 pandemic, education should continue. Schools can adopt one or a combination of the following learning modalities depending on the particular context of the learners in the school or locality.

Traditional Face-to-Face refers to a traditional classroom setup where the students and the teacher are physically present in the classroom. In areas under the medium and high-risk areas, this is not possible. In these areas, they may opt to adapt other learning modalities such as distance learning, be it in modular distance learning or online distance learning.

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. This modality has three types: Modular Distance Learning (MDL), Online Distance Learning (ODL), and TV/Radio-Based Instruction.

Modular Distance allows learners to use self-learning modules (SLMs) in print or digital format/electronic copy, depending on which 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. The teacher takes the responsibility of monitoring the progress of the learners thru text, chat or any other forms. The learners may ask assistance from the teacher via e-mail, telephone, text message/instant messaging, etc. The teacher shall do home visits to learners needing remediation or assistance if possible provided that safety health protocol is observed. Any member of the family or other stakeholder in the community needs to serve as learning facilitators.

Online Distance Learning features the teacher as facilitator, engaging learners’ active participation through the use of various technologies accessed through the internet while they are geographically remote from each other during instruction. Online learning allows live synchronous instruction. In this learning modality, a good and stable internet connection is a must. It is more interactive than the other types of distance learning. The responses are real time. The learners may download materials from the internet, complete and submit assignments online, attend webinars and virtual classes. The DepEd Commons and LR Portal fall in this category wherein students can now access these online platforms.

Blended Learning is the combination of face-to-face and any learning modalities or a mix of online distance learning, modular distance learning, and TV/Radio-based Instruction. Blended learning enables the schools to limit face-to-face learning, ensure social distancing, and decrease the volume of people outside the home at any given time.

Home schooling aims to provide learners with access to quality basic education through a home-based instruction facilitated by qualified parents, guardians or tutors who have undergone relevant trainings. It allows families to educate according to their personal faith, philosophy, and values.