DepEd Baguio presents roadmap toward Smart Learning Community

The Department of Education – Schools Division of Baguio City finalized its roadmap towards a Smart Learning Communities by adapting and innovating strategies that worked well under the blended learning scheme during the Covid-19 pandemic.

DepEd Baguio envisions a smart learning community with the institutionalization of virtual learning incorporating innovative approaches to address challenges in basic education.

DepEd Baguio Schools Division Superintendent Soraya Faculo said the implementation of online learning during the pandemic were mainly driven by own initiatives of educators met with several challenges from lack of resources among others.

“The division (DepEd) would like to put forth a city-wide initiative with directives from the regional office ensuring that within three years, all schools will be implementing a form of online learning therefore strengthening the Smart Learning Communities,” Faculo explained.

Under the program, DepEd Baguio hopes that by 2026, all schools in Baguio roll out the refined model of virtual learning with the integration of technologies needed.

Also, teachers should have the right motivation and competency with the right technology.

At least 11.3 million will be needed to implement the program with the end goal of virtual learning as a normal way of teaching in the third year given that all learner’s homes have internet connectivity.

Juliet Sannad, DepEd Chief Supervisor on Curriculum Implementation said virtual learning is not an option anymore but a need.

“Virtual learning does not mean no more face to face, there will still be face-to-face but on schedule following the blended learning model,” she explained.

DepEd Cordillera Regional Director Estela Carino supports the program saying this will solve one of the identified problems in Baguio on inadequate classrooms as well as the lack of buildable spaces for more classrooms.

“The only solution we see is the institutionalization of online learning through virtual classrooms but this will need support from the local government unit,” Cariño said during the presentation of the program to city officials on July 3, 2023.

Presently, more than 60 learners are jam packed in a classroom that is supposed to be for 35 individuals only as a standard learning environment according to DepEd.

In support to the program, the city council unanimously adopted a resolution penned by Councilor Vladimir Cayabas, chairman of the Committee on Education, Culture, Creativity and Historical Research, endorsing the Smart Learning Communities by DepEd Baguio to the office of Honorable Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte. – JMPS