The COVID-19 pandemic has forced educators to conceive new teaching modalities such as holding classes online. The question is: Are all Filipino learners ready for this modality, including the tools necessary for it? I admire how the Department of Education (DepEd) is looking for solutions, amid the pandemic, to cure ignorance, but some solutions should remain as ideas since not all of them are feasible.
As a teacher in a public school, I am not against online learning. But I am against the DepEd’s lack of consideration toward learners, especially poor students. Not all of them own a smartphone or computer. They are attending public schools because these provide free education since their parents cannot afford to send them to private institutions. In addition, not all areas across the country have access to the internet. Some may have the means to buy a smartphone, but will there be mobile coverage?
So who is to blame? The blame is not entirely on the DepEd or the government. We also have liability, because we choose the leaders who will lead us.
We should not have rushed things to provide solutions; more problems will occur because of impulsive decisions. We should use the time to reflect and plan for the best solution that can be applicable to everyone.
ROJOVENEL G. BAWIT
Centro Sur, Gattaran, Cagayan
rojovenel.bawit@deped.gov.ph