SMS VIRTUAL EVENTS

Spearheaded by the SMS Dean, Dr. B. Blay, newly-hired faculty members and returnees were welcomed in BENILDE for Term 1 of Academic-Year 2020-2021. The School of Multidisciplinary Studies held its first online orientation seminar last September 2, 2020 for its newly-hired faculty members and returnees.

The online orientation seminar began with a concise discussion on Inclusion. The topic was covered by Mrs. Nicky Perez an her team from the Center for Inclusive Education. Other essential topics covered were each delivered (see Programme) by the SMS Area Chairpersons.

This virtual event was made possible by the School's Virtual Production Manager, Mr. Benie Estepa.

Prior to the opening of classes in BENILDE the School of Multidisciplinary Studies held its yearly planning workshop which consisted of the SMS Dean and its seven Area Chairpersons last August 28, 2020.

Discussions, decisions made, deliberations and additional planning were focused on re-aligning traditional processes and policies to the defined "new normal" of the College. Where changes and adjustments were made, such as in the Teaching-Learning methods employed prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic, all were done with Benildean students in mind. Another influencing idea that guided the SMS administrators was the call "no Benildean learner gets left behind"- a call heard from the College's Vice-Chancellor for Academics in one of the recent Academic Council Meetings.

Moreover, a common grading scheme was reiterated during the workshop. Chairs are expected to reinforce the Cumulative Grading Computation amongst the faculty members. This computation system benefits the learners more than any other computation mechanism.

The remarkable performance of teaching and class management of all SMS faculty members attests to the willingness and readiness of these teachers despite the challenges of the prevailing Pandemic. Moreover, this reflects the efficient supervision and management of the Area Chairs who are encouraged to sustain the culture of excellence in teaching, research and extending services and aid to nearby local communities.