The Department of Education (DepEd) flagged over 230 schools, with more than 377,000 learners, as “very high risk” for learning losses, as a result of frequent class suspensions stemming from sequential disasters and the damages these have exacted.
“Learning loss” was defined by DepEd in a pandemic recovery plan as the “specific or general loss of knowledge and skills or reversals in academic progress” usually caused by drawn-out gaps or discontinuities in one’s learning.
As much as 377,729 students in 239 areas have been determined at very high risk, while 4,771 schools with a total of 3,865,903 students have been classified as “high risk,” according to DepEd’s data.
The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) has already logged 35 learning days lost.
“This accounts for the highest number of school days lost, mainly due to natural disasters and calamities,” DepEd stated.
Meanwhile, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, CALABARZON, and Central Luzon have had to cancel 29 school days, due in part to man-made hazards like fires.
In response to this crisis, DepEd will be implementing the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP).
“DLP can be implemented in schools as make-up classes and catch-up sessions in temporary learning spaces. The initiative features parallel classes, activity-based engagement, student portfolios, and a reduced homework policy,” the Education Department announced.
The program, described as “a cost-effective strategy focused on strong fundamentals” was designed by Dr. Christopher Bernido, an education advocate awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2010.
Khan Academy, also a DepEd partner, showed the Department how their online learning content could enhance students’ mastery.
