Online Learning
This is a very relevant topic since during the start of the pandemic, one of the teaching methods that is being used in schools is ONLINE LEARNING in order to continue the education of our children. This topic was extensively discussed by Lou Sabrina Ongkiko, MAED, a master teacher 1 of Culiat Elementary School during the Philippine Pediatric Society virtual annual convention.
Miss Ongkiko stated that Remote learning takes place whenever a student and a teacher or source of information are separated by distance or time and are not confined in a physical learning space such as a classroom. This could be:
1. Synchronous remote learning when it is happening at the same time
2. Asynchronous remote learning when it is not happening at the same time
According to the discussion during the virtual annual convention, there are 4 types of Remote Learning which are:
1. Modular — his type uses self – learning modules (SLM) in print or digital format
2. Online — this type uses various technologies accessed through the internet
3. TV/Radio-Based – this type uses SLM converted to video lessons for TV and scripts for radio
4. Blended – this is a combination of the different types
Is this kind of method effective? Is it helping students learn?
Our resource speaker emphasized that the effectiveness of this learning is based on the following parameters:
1. Pedagogy
2. Equity
3. Support
The success of this kind of teaching method is an interplay of the different factors such as:
1. Parental supervision and support
2. Reasonable workload
3. Conducive environment
4. Gadget and access to internet
5. Independent reader
6. Healthy body and mind of the learner
Vera Clemens, et al in 2020 mentioned that the effects of Social Distancing and School Lockdown on children have 3 emerging patterns and these are:
1. Children who seem to prosper
2. Children who seem to be mildly adversely affected
3. Children who are deprived of the safe haven offered by schools
So in view of these, what can we do to move forward? Miss Lou Ongkiko mentioned the following recommendations:
A. In terms of pedagogy
* benefits of online learning are not inherent in the technologies being used, rather, they are outcomes of pedagogical design
* teachers need to critically reflect on and relearn how to teach
in this setting
* discuss ” what is quality online learning really like”. This does not necessarily need a lot of bandwidth
* quick solutions developed during the Covid-19 crisis might not be the best way forward but pick and choose the ones most effective
B. In terms of equity and support
* we cannot say that online learning has reached a state that provides an equal access to learning opportunities. Local infrastructure should be developed to provide better access to internet
* take care of the child mental health which could be the basis for future adult mental health that is important to productivity and well being in the society