ALL the positive impact in the teaching-learning process is so evident because of digital transformation that has become the face of the Department of Education (DepEd) Davao Region.
DepEd has transcended traditional ways and processes and is now using digital technologies to either modify existing processes or create new processes.
To understand this more, let us look at how DepEd slowly evolved in the last five years at the start of Secretary Leonor M. Briones’ administration. The DepEd Computerization Program (DCP), which aims to address the computer backlog in public schools and provide them with appropriate technologies to enhance the teaching-learning process, has been strengthened.
It is true that not all schools use computers, especially those located in the remotest areas with no electricity. But schools in urban and rural areas with electricity enjoy the benefits of technology. In 2016, about 3,126 DCP packages were delivered to schools across the region.
Consequently, series of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) seminars and webinars have been given to teachers to reinforce digital technology in the teaching-learning process.
In Davao Region, we already have 2,180 trained Microsoft Education Ambassadors and 380 Open Educational Resource Trained teachers.
They are equipped with essential digital skills especially with the present situation when every process becomes virtual due to health restrictions.
The conduct of webinars where teachers and personnel are exposed to the use of technology as means of communication and learning has become effective.
Even the filling up of daily time records (DTRs) through a created app during alternative work arrangements in this time of pandemic has also become effective. Those who work at home just need to log in and out using their mobile phones.
This was done through the prodding of Regional Director (RD) Allan G. Farnazo and Assistant RD Maria Ines C. Asuncion to ensure proper monitoring of DTRs.
The Information and Communications Technology Office of DepEd manned by Ricardo Guinto, Pocholo Hernandez, and Jashua Wong developed the Work from Home app. Their counterparts in the division offices across Davao Region have developed similar apps too.
They also developed the Online Application System for Private Schools with renewal application which became the first in the country in modernizing the monitoring and evaluation of private schools’ applications.
This is under the Quality Assurance Division headed by Jenielito Atillo, the assigned spokesperson of DepEd. This has become more beneficial especially in this time of pandemic. So, we now go online.
Tagum City also developed Tags or Teaching And Guide for Students, an app-based learning material. It is the first step in transitioning from traditional, printed SLMs to digital forms.
Packaged neatly in the Tags application are the locally made self-learning modules. Jecson Oafallas, the developer of the application and a Project Development Officer II of Tagum City, showed how the app goes beyond the bounds of printed texts and internet connectivity.
The digitally stored modules are available for online reading and can be downloaded for offline consumption. They can be viewed within the app and stored in local device memory. So, it is just a swipe or a click away.
Tags serves as an information gateway for student users, minimizing heavy trails of papers on their tables, providing an alternative if parents cannot come to school to claim modules, and handing over unlimited access to relearn difficult topics. Parents need not come to school and instead can focus on providing instructional assistance at home.
Thanks to the brilliant leadership of Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Josephine Fadul and Assistant SDS Melanie Estacio.
The presence of digital transformation strengthened the communication strategies in the region too.
The DepEd Region XI Facebook page has shared significant posts because of all these digital transformations. A clear example of this is the airing of Diri sa DepEd Onse episodes every Friday at 3 in the afternoon.
All the shots and angles, including the use of a drone camera that gives quality aerial imaging, are like done by pros. The videos are edited well. And to think that these are done by teachers or non-teaching personnel who were not really trained in this craft but have exceeded beyond the expectations.
Those who have watched episodes of Diri sa DepEd Onse can attest to that.
This online broadcast has become the venue for creating and sharing content that would clearly and persuasively show how DepEd commits to true public service.
The schools divisions have their regular online broadcasts too and the popular ones are Padayon and Virtual Friday Yeheyyy! of Davao Occidental shown every Friday. With the leadership of SDS Lorenzo Mendoza who is armed with technology skills and the eye for the nitty-gritty of production and the support and leadership of Assistant SDS Antonio Delos Reyes, Davao Occidental Division is making waves too in online broadcasts.