Colleges and universities that can implement a “flexible” learning system can open the next academic year in August, the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) said.
Flexible learning however should not only be limited to online classes and activities, said CHEd Chairman Prospero De Vera.
“Other universities and colleges give learning packets, take-home activities, readings, examinations, and papers,” he said in a radio interview.
Flexible learning also allows universities and colleges to adjust the deadline of requirements for students, De Vera said.
The CHEd chair clarified that higher education institutions that have no flexible learning system in place should only open their academic calendars on a later date.
He said CHEd is also working on helping universities, and colleges adapt flexible learning systems to ensure that education would be inclusive for all students and teachers.
Classes in all levels were suspended since March as the government sought to contain the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).
De Vera meanwhile said schools that are unable to implement flexible learning systems and would require physical classroom meetings should open the school year on a later date.
“The opening of classes would depends on the situation at the ground level which includes compliance with health requirements and consultation with the local government unit,” he said.
The government has extended the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila and other areas at high risk of a COVID-19 outbreak until May 15.
Other parts of the country meanwhile began shifting to a general community quarantine which the government dubbed as the “new normal.”
READ: DepEd eyes smaller class sizes for next school year
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