The Department of Education (DepEd) in Bicol has observed a successful dry run of new learning modalities under the “new normal”.

DepEd-Bicol Regional Director Gilbert Sadsad, in a statement this weekend, said the initial result of the dry run was very inspiring.

He said the participating schools, especially the teachers were able to demonstrate properly the different modalities despite the limited time of preparation and the challenges brought by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

The DepEd started on the last week of July the conduct of dry run of various learning modalities that will be utilized by schools in lieu of the traditional face-to-face learning as particularized in the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan.

Around 10 schools have successfully conducted the simulation of the different processes of giving education, the agency said.

The first batch to conduct the distance learning simulation comprised Naga City Science High School and Camarines Sur National High School where selected students and teachers “attended” online classes.

Radio-based instruction simulation was also conducted by selected teachers from Don Lazaro Madara Memorial School and Aroroy East Central School in Masbate, Goa Central School and San Isidro National High School in Camarines Sur.

The simulation activity was streamed live through the social media pages of DepEd Philippines, DepEd Bicol and DepEd Tayo to demonstrate how the different modalities of learning for school year 2020-2021 will proceed.

Pursuant to DepEd Memorandum No. 7, series of 2020, the agency will adopt the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan as an alternative delivery mode amid the continuing health crisis.

It consists of the following learning modalities: distance learning via modular/ printed instruction, online learning, radio and TV-based learning and blended learning which is a combination of any of the three modalities.

Based on a survey conducted by DepEd-Bicol, majority of the parents and learners prefer the use of printed modules as a learning modality this year. (PNA)