Immersion learning/training is defined as the learning that occurs as a result of immersion in a particular environment. Therefore, it is characterized as an environment-related and environment-preparative method that employs aspects of multiple learning methods in addition to its unique environmentally dependent features.
Everybody knows that the industry work environment has changed dramatically during the last two decades, more specifically in the latter years, in the advent of Industrial Revolution 4.0 that requires the academe to come up with programs that will meet its requirement through Education 4.0. Prospective employees need to learn about industry-relevant topics, to understand and be able to operate in a context-oriented manner, to think innovatively, and to develop and utilize good communication and interpersonal skills through teamwork and networking. The need was realized by the then CHED Commissioner Patricia Licuanan and said, “Academe-industry partnerships will enable the country’s higher education institutions to be updated with the latest trends and keep up with the demands of both the private and public sectors.”
Given the uncertainty of the situation due to the pandemic brought about by COVID 19, we need to respond positively. Learning and school operations has to continue. Schools and universities need to deliver what is expected from them and accept the challenges and turn those into opportunities. We still need to help and guide our students along the way and prepare them not only for licensure examinations but most especially to the world of work and be globally competitive. The attainment of which depends largely on the skills, qualifications and competencies of the faculty. Hence the need for faculty members of the university to ignite and sustain innovative teaching practices that are updated and aligned with the need of the industry and the context of the present through faculty immersion.
It is within these context that this proposal is being made and suggested. Moreover, faculty immersion program is part of the agenda in the University’s Medium Term Development Program under S.G. 3 of Goal 1 and from which the bases of this proposal are as follows:
1. CMO No. 13, s. 2016- Implementing Guidelines for Industry Partnerships under the Sectoral engagements Component of the IRSE Grants
2. BulSU New Faculty Manual, Chapter VI-Faculty Development Program
3. IATF Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines.
Please see the attached Guidelines on Faculty Immersion
***Approved by the University Executive Committee during its EXECOM Meeting dated December 15, 2020 at the College of Education Library
*** Approved by the Board of Regents (BOR) during its 1st regular meeting dated March 18, 2021.