More Sarangani schools to use Smart-backed ALIVE, IPEd learning strategy for SY 2020-2021

As schools gear up for academic year 2020-2021, an innovative teaching strategy backed by PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) will serve as one of the solutions to help ensure continuous education for Sarangani learners amid the pandemic. 

When Smart first introduced the CVIF-Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF-DLP) to the Department of Education (DepEd) Sarangani Division in 2016, it was intended to simply aid in developing indigenized and contextualized learning materials for early Muslim and IP learners.  This led to the implementation of CVIF-DLP in the Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) and Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) programs in 2017 and 2019, respectively. 

Applicable for online and offline learning

When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out early 2020, it became apparent that teachers needed to find new ways of teaching. DepEd presented different Distance Learning Modalities available – Online, Modular, and Radio-Based Instruction.   

However, each option bears challenges. “Most parents prefer Modular Learning, which entails cost to print and deliver modules to students’ homes,” Schools Division of Sarangani CID Chief Donna Panes shares.

It was then that the Division decided to expand the number of schools that will implement CVIF-DLP, a Smart-backed teaching methodology that hones independent learning –  a critical element in distance learning. 

Aimed at ensuring that the teaching and learning process continues despite the pandemic, this tried and tested, crisis-resilient strategy is designed to be low-cost and flexible. “CVIF-DLP can work even without internet access, devices, books, and notebooks. It applies to any or a combination of DepEd modalities – print-based, online, or even TV and radio,” Smart Assistant Vice President for Community Partnerships Stephanie V. Orlino explains. 

Smart, PSF-led workshops since 2010

The DLP methodology was developed by award-winning theoretical physicists Dr. Christopher Bernido and Dra. Ma. Victoria Carpio-Bernido originally for the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) school in their hometown of Jagna, Bohol. Along with PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), the social outreach arm of PLDT, Smart has been staging CVIF-DLP workshops since 2010. These include virtual webinars that have taken the place of on-ground trainings since the start of the pandemic.  

To-date, over 300 teachers from DepEd Sarangani Division have learned how to effectively develop Learning Activity Sheets (LAS), that are aligned with DepEd’s Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELC). Close to 1,000 LAS validated by the Learning Resources Management and Development System (LRMDS) will initially be used by Kinder to Junior High School students in the province for blended learning this coming academic year.    

LAS printing requirements, PPEs and disinfectants from PLDT-Smart

As the Division of Sarangani prepares for the opening of classes, selected schools received printer ink and bond paper from Smart for the reproduction of LAS, while PSF provided PPEs and disinfectants to help keep the teachers safe.  

DepEd Central also recently announced its nationwide endorsement of the CVIF-DLP LAS as a Supplemental Learning Resource. The CVIF-DLP LAS for junior and senior high school will be available for download via DepEd Commons soon. “The LAS will surely be part of the Self-Learning Materials that our students will use this school year,” Panes says.  

PLDT and Smart recognize quality education as a foundation in improving people’s lives and obtaining sustainable development. In support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly SDG #4: Quality Education, education continues to be a flagship CSR program throughout PLDT Group, with a strong emphasis on digital literacy. 

For more information about CVIF-DLP, visit www.dlp.ph, follow Dynamic Learning Program on Facebook, or send an email to LearnSmart@smart.com.ph.