The upcoming weeklong transport strike is causing concern for parents and students, but the Department of Education (DepEd) has assured that classes will continue as scheduled.
The DepEd spokesperson, Michael Poa, stated that they will not be suspending classes despite the strike. Instead, schools may need to switch to distance learning or other alternative delivery modes to ensure that students who can't attend in-person classes won't be marked absent.
Regional directors are already conducting scans to determine the number of learners and teachers that will be affected in the National Capital Region. They will then give instructions to affected schools on how to switch to distance learning, which may include assigning activities or other research work as a mode of alternative delivery.
Self-learning modules are still being used as supplementary teaching materials, and the goal is to ensure that the education of our youth is not delayed.
The Teachers' Dignity Coalition (TDC) also suggested that if local government units (LGUs) won't suspend schooling during the transport strike, DepEd may opt to use alternative delivery modes like modular or online teaching for affected learners. TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas also emphasized that teachers should be allowed to use the work-from-home scheme for that week.
The transport strike is expected to cause significant disruptions to commuters, with many students and workers having to find alternative ways to get to school or work. The DepEd's announcement provides some relief to parents who may be worried about their children's education being affected.
While distance learning may not be an ideal alternative to in-person classes, it is a necessary measure to ensure that students continue to receive quality education even in the face of disruptions.
The use of alternative delivery modes, such as self-learning modules and online teaching, has become increasingly important during the pandemic, and they will likely continue to be an essential tool for education even after the pandemic is over.
The TDC's suggestion that teachers should also be allowed to use the work-from-home scheme is a crucial point. Teachers are just as affected by the transport strike as students, and they also need to find alternative ways to get to school. By allowing them to work from home, they can continue to teach their students without having to worry about commuting during the strike.