E-Teaching and Learning: 21st Century Blessing or Nuisance?

By: Anne Mikhaela T. Tablan

Date posted: Feb. 15, 2019 | 9:06 AM

One of the key features of the K-to-12 Enhanced Basic Education Program is the development of learners who are possessing 21st Century Knowledge, skills and attitude. Thus, computer literacy came into the limelight of the schools particularly in the teaching learning process.

Nowadays, there exists numerous applications which can further develop 21st Century skills among learners. The question is, “Are there enough units to cater the learners in all corners of the school, if not, the classroom. Is the connectivity strong enough to handle all the requirements of learners?” If these questions are not answered, how can we implement the mandate to develop 21st Century learners who are technologically-adept or computer literate. This becomes the problem of many schools.

The City Government of Balanga thru the effort of Hon. Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia has conceived the idea of putting-up School Learning Hubs and Barangay Learning Hubs in different barangays of Balanga which provide a strong internet connection and a number of computer units. Currently, there are 2 School Learning Hubs and 11 Barangay Learning Hubs operating in the City. Students can come during free time to surf the net, do their research and even print assignments. Printers are free to use, however, bond papers must be brought by the student for his own consumption. Barangay Learning Hubs also offer trainings for particular group of users who can be students, out of school youth, employed and unemployed and parents.

The 21st Century requires students to be skilled in using the computers and internet or they lag behind the trend. Computer skills become a must for students in all levels of education which not only facilitate their work but can be a handy tool when they pursue work on employment.

Still, there is a need for school to equip computers with strong connectivity and enough number of units to give opportunity for all learners to access technology. Information, communication and technology have become a part of the curriculum even in basic education which requires all schools, public or private, to equip itself.

Such technology is a blessing for learners, teachers and schools. However, it becomes a nuisance when the need is never realized. Everyone must be resourceful.