A group of teachers is calling on the Department of Education (DepEd) to implement a “pass or fail” system for the evaluation of students’ performance for the upcoming school year.
The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines said such a system would be a more “humane” evaluation mechanism given the sudden shift to distance learning, and the ongoing COVID-19 crisis that has disrupted the way of life.
“This, to us, is more in keeping with education’s objective of arming our youth amid the crises, instead of alienating them from their surroundings and adding unnecessary pressure onto their lives,” ACT Secretary General Raymond Basilio said in a statement.
“For the group, an assessment and a grading that correspond with education’s objective of ensuring learners are well-equipped to understand, respond to, and contribute to society should be in place,” he added.
The group noted that having a more relaxed grading mechanism would “greatly help teachers and students as they navigate the drastic changes in teaching and learning amid the pandemic.”
The DepEd had earlier released its Basic Education-Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) in response to the changes in the education system due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan features a streamlined curriculum through the implementation of the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs).
The DepEd has also moved the opening of classes to Oct. 5 instead of Aug. 24, saying the delay would afford teachers, parents, and students with more time to prepare for blended learning.
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