Department of Education (DepEd) said parents do not need to buy gadgets for their children to participate in blended learning, as classes begin on August 24.
According to DepEd Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan, they are preparing printed learning materials for students who have no gadgets and no access to the internet.
He said they would find ways to deliver such printed materials to the students.
They will also conduct surveys with parents during the enrollment period to determine the teaching methods they currently favor amid pandemic.
“Kahit ho walang gadget at internet, kami po ay naghahanda rin ng mga printed learning modules at gagawan natin ng paraan na ihatid sa mga tahanan o kaya merong coordinated na pag-pick up nitong mga printed learning modules na ito,” said Malaluan.
(Even there are no gadgets and internet, we are also preparing printed learning modules, and we will find ways to bring them to the student at their home, or there would be a coordinated pick up of these printed learning modules.)
DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones earlier clarified that there would be no face-to-face classes when the school year opens on August 24.
She said DepEd and President Rodrigo Duterte have the same stand on prioritizing the safety of learners.
Duterte also commended alternative and blended learning methods of DepEd that will reach the students amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“I’m impressed with the simplicity of the program, and I believe that all that you have said is really feasible: radio, television, and all of these things. I believe we have a very workable program, and I support you,” said Duterte.
DepEd also announced Friday that all teachers in public schools would be working from home starting June 1 to 5, except for the authorized skeleton workforce.
“To avoid risks of exposure pending the finalization of work arrangements by the heads of offices upon the issuance of the comprehensive guidelines next week, all teachers in DepEd schools nationwide shall work from home from June 1 to 5, except for those specifically authorized by the Regional Directors to form part of the skeleton workforce who will render work in school, subject to observance of COVID-19 health and safety precautions,” Briones said.