Taking Stock and Gearing UP for Remote Teaching and Learning
Year 2

As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic compelled the University of the Philippines to implement remote teaching/learning in AY 2020-2021 (OVPPA MEMO NO. 2020-68). Since the pandemic is still an ongoing concern, remote teaching and learning will continue in the First Semester AY2021-2022 and probably in the Second Semester AY2021-2022. While we are hoping that the pandemic situation starting January 2022 will allow us to begin blending virtual, face-to-face and experiential learning, we are not yet in a position to say that we will be transitioning to the next normal by then. To date, only medical-related courses are allowed to conduct face-to-face classes per CHED-DOH Joint Memo No. 2021-001.

Under the circumstances, there is a need for the University to begin planning for the next academic year based on a systematic assessment of the implementation of remote teaching and learning in AY 2020-2021. The System Committee on Remote Teaching and Learning (SCRTL) proposed that this assessment and planning be undertaken at a workshop with the VCAA, College Deans, Department Heads/Institute Directors, and Program Coordinators of each CU.

The said workshop, entitled “Taking Stock and Gearing UP for Remote Teaching and Learning Year 2,” aims to (1) reflect on the implementation of remote teaching and learning in AY 2020-2021; and (2) plan for the AY 2021-2022. It was held via Zoom on June 28, July 2, 5, and 7, 2021.

Prior to the workshop, the academic units came together to discuss and assess their implementation of remote teaching and learning in AY 2020-2021. The following guide questions were used for the discussion/assessment:

The outputs from the pre-workshop activity were shared by the Vice Chancellors for Academic Affairs and Principals during the workshop proper.

The workshop is a kickoff to program redesign for AY 2021-2022, which will be discussed during the workshop.

After the workshop, academic units are expected to come together once again to discuss and redesign their curriculum checklist for AY 2021-2022. The expected outputs from this activity are: (1) adjusted curriculum checklist (e.g., redistribution/resequencing of courses to reduce student load per semester/term, decoupling of lab and lecture courses); (2) faculty teaching load; (3) number of TA/TFs and Lecturers, if needed; and (4) redesigned course packs, if needed.