LEARNING CONTINUITY PLAN

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected educational systems worldwide, leading to the near-total closures of schools, universities, and colleges. Most governments around the world have temporarily closed educational institutions in an attempt to contain the spread of COVID-19.   As of 24 May 2020, approximately 1.725 billion learners are currently affected due to school closures in response to the pandemic.  According to UNICEF monitoring, 153 countries are currently implementing nationwide closures and 24 are implementing local closures, impacting about 98.6 percent of the world’s student population.  In response to school closures, UNESCO recommended the use of distance learning programs and open educational applications and platforms that schools and teachers can use to reach learners remotely and limit the disruption of education. (Wikipedia: Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education)

In the Philippines, our government agencies namely the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education (DepEd) and Technical Vocational Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have already existing platforms for distance and open education even before the influence of COVID 19 pandemic.  These learning platforms can be easily modified or developed into blended learning modality that best applies to the specific needs of the learners and in their respective localities in this pressing time of need.

Currently, with the onslaught of COVID-19, face-to-face classes have become impossible.  Schools have no choice but to resort to a blended learning system (virtual/online and face to face classrooms and modular.  This is the solution to the current problem which has beset the country and the province, particularly in the education industry.  There seems to be no problem in terms of the capability of both teachers and learners to do online classes as teachers have been trained on how to conduct the classes and likewise, learners have also been prepared for this kind of arrangement.  However, internet connectivity in remote areas is a challenge. 

Blended Learning Modality is applicable in most areas of the country and that includes Negros Oriental.  Corollary to that situation,  Metro Dumaguete College as an institution of higher learning, and at the same time a technical-vocational institution has a great responsibility to provide continuous education to the learners and jobs to the faculty and its employees likewise, prime up economic activities in our locality.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is MADELS?

MADELS is an acronym of MDC Access to Distance E-Learning System integrating the Moodle platform.   This is an approach to learning that combines face to face, modular, and online learning experiences.  Ideally, each online and offline will complement the other by using its particular strengths. (http://teachthought.com/learning).  

MADELS approach puts the emphasis where teachers/trainers use modules and online media to deliver notes, lectures, and related course materials.  learners review these materials at home and at their own pace.  Classroom periods are then formed into a hands-on work period where the teachers have already delivered their lecture digitally–is free to field questions, engage class-wide discussions using Moodle or offer other means of support.  Blended learning seems to reinforce student-centered learning, allowing learners to master content in an individual way. 

Of course, no educational model is “one-size-fits-all”, and some blended classrooms are effective, hence, MDC is using the MADELS approach that best applies for our learners enrolled in the various programs of Metro Dumaguete College such as Senior High, College, Technical Vocational and Diploma subjects.

 How do we access MADELS?

Upon completion of the enrollment process, learners will be able to access the MADELS through the email and password provided to them. Upon logging in, they can now view the subjects enrolled in them. 

STEPS to access the MADELS

1. Go to our school website at www.mdci.edu.ph, 
2. Go to the MADELS login block and input your email address and password. 
3. You will now be able to see your enrolled subjects and start your online learning. 

What do we need to access MADELS?

To access our MADEL system, you will need a desktop/laptop computer or a smartphone or a gadget with an internet connection. 

What is MODULAR DISTANCE EDUCATION

Learning is in the form of individualized instruction that allows learners to use Self Learning modules (SLMs) and Competency-Based Learning Materials (CBLMs) in print or digital format/electronic copy, whichever 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.

What is Online Learning Modality?

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. It requires participants to have a good and stable internet connection. The learners may download materials from the internet, complete and submit assignments online, attend classes, and take assessments. This is practiced effectively by using our LMS  called MADELS

How are online subjects taught at MDC?

The online subjects will be delivered via the MADEL System. MADELS is supported by Moodle technology that is used by millions of learners worldwide. The Moodle Learning Management System (LMS) provides educators across all levels and industries with a highly functional, flexible, and interoperable digital learning solution through open-source technology. All subjects are made by trainers, teachers, and subject matter experts ensuring high-quality course content for our learners.

 In regards to technology, what do I need to succeed in an online course?

Learners need access to a computer or any digital device that can connect to the internet, such as a smartphone. The minimum speed when connected should be 2 MBPS.

 When do I need to be connected to the internet for online learning?

Learners will need an Internet connection to:

1. Participate in live class sessions, check assigned tasks,
2. Download learning materials such as videos and books, which can be watched and read  offline,
3. Collaborate with classmates,
4. Consult with teachers,
5. Upload assignments and projects
6. Take the assessment.

 What if I have trouble with the technology? How do I get assistance?

You may contact your adviser, or any of our technical support team using the Chat feature in our FB Messenger found in our website and in MADELS. Alternatively, you can call us during office hours at 09177017104/4224605, so we assist you right away. 

What if I need help with the course content?

If you are taking online subjects and would need to communicate with your teachers. Consultation time with your teacher will be scheduled accordingly. The same goes for those under Modular Distance Learning, a communication channel will be available to you during your teacher’s consultation hours.

 When does my class meet?

All learning modality at MDC will commence right after our student orientation. We may also require your parents or guardians to attend a parent orientation before the class starts. Learning officially starts after the learners are given access codes to all pertinent technologies.

 Will I be able to communicate online sufficiently with the trainer/teacher or other learners?

MADELS allows you to communicate with your teachers and your classmates too for collaboration works. Other means to communicate will be via email, FB Messenger, or through SMS/Call.

 What are the assessment methods?

Assessments will still be formative and summative assessments. Different types of assessments that include performance-based assessments that will measure your learning. These could be online assessments that will be given to learners who have an internet connection and/or with limited data through MADELS.  If you choose the Modular Distance modality, assessments will be included in your LMs/CBLMs and summative assessments may also be done in MDC following standards set by IATF.

What happens if the Internet is down or if I have computer problems?

It is best not to wait for the last-minute submission of your activities to avoid these kinds of problems. While technology is great when it is running smoothly; it is still a must that you should plan and prepare for technology glitches. If your computer or digital device is not working, try logging off and on again. Rebooting the computer often fixes many problems. You can still access the class by using any computer that is online. You may also use the free Facebook Messenger to contact your instructor. If all else fails, you may ask for assistance on our technical support communication channels. 

What personal skills do I need to succeed in an online course?

1) Self-discipline and motivation to succeed help a lot. Learners who delay working on assigned online lessons have trouble succeeding in online learning.

2) Strong time management and organizational skills are fundamental.

3) Writing is the primary mode of communication. Good writing skill is important.

4) You are expected to be able to read, interpret material, and complete coursework with minimal supervision and direction.

5) You must be comfortable with asking questions or expressing difficulties. If not, instructors will assume you are progressing without difficulty.

6) Your online teachers/trainers WILL NOT teach technology skills. learners MUST have moderate computer experience – including and not limited to:  

• ability to submit and retrieve assignments and other course materials,
• ability to send and receive an email with or without attachments,
• ability to download files,
• ability to work in a Windows environment,
• ability to create PDF (portable document format) documents
• ability to create multimedia materials
• ability to effectively navigate the World Wide Web.

 What you can expect from our Teachers/Trainers:

• Teachers will post relevant learning content and materials to support learners with instructional delivery. learners must log in each day during their assigned time to check for assignments and instructions from the teacher.
• Our Teachers will be available to monitor and respond to student inquiries via the LMS, during school hours from the time it is posted from Mondays to Fridays, except for weekends.
• Live sessions/classes will also be done via the Google Meet. 

 What you can expect from your son/daughter:

• Learners should log in to the LMS on a daily basis.
• Learners will need to complete all required assignments and submit the same as directed by their teacher.
• Learners should watch the videos posted in their entirety. Our system tracks usage of learning contents and this will be part of their course completion.
• Learners should email teachers if they have any questions.

 How can parents help at Metro Dumaguete College?

• Ensure that their child checks in the LMS on a daily basis.
• Check that their child watches the required videos and reads the documents uploaded in the LMS.
• Ensure that their child completes all required assignments/projects and submits the same to their teachers in a timely manner.
• Help their child create his/her daily calendar or schedule which will include breaks in between lessons.
• Encourage their child to reach out to their teachers if they have any questions or concerns.

 How do we get our LMs/CBLMs?

Your LMs/CBLMs will be given to you before the start of class. These could be sent to you or can be picked up onsite, delivered through postal courier, drop-off stations in respective LGUs. (Note: We may require other fees for materials, printing, and delivery.)

What are the assessment methods?

Assessments will still be formative and summative assessments. Different types of assessments that include performance-based assessments that will measure your learning. These could be online assessments that will be given to learners who have an internet connection and/or with limited data through MADELS.  If you choose the Modular Distance modality, assessments will be included in your LMs/CBLMs and summative assessments may also be done in MDC following standards set by IATF.

What if I need help with the course content?

If you are taking online subjects and would need to communicate with your teachers. Consultation time with your teacher will be scheduled accordingly. The same goes for those under Modular Distance Learning, a communication channel will be available to you during your teacher’s consultation hours.

How do I get assistance in my chosen modality?