In a bid to reflect on the positive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on teaching and learning (as well as research and extension), the Instruction Committee of the UP College of Education (UPCEd) hosted the Pandemic Gains in Education Forum on Monday, March 18, 2024. Held at the Benitez Theatre of the UPCEd, the event brought together faculty and representatives from the tri-unit composed of UPCEd, UP Integrated School (UPIS), and UP National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED).
Presentations from the faculty of UPCEd and UPIS highlighted the success stories of their rapid transition to online teaching and learning, innovations in course design and delivery, and creative use of digital platforms for instruction and other teaching-related activities. UP NISMED underscored their gains in the conduct of teacher professional development activities and research and in the development of curriculum materials.
Discussions also emphasized the importance of having an education community that fosters academic excellence, as well as care and compassion for the wellbeing of all its stakeholders. The short workshop conducted after the presentations allowed the participants to think about how the insights on pandemic gains can guide the design and delivery of instruction in their respective areas/clusters. The workshop outputs are envisioned to inform future policy directions.
The Pandemic Gains in Education Forum concluded with a sense of optimism and renewed determination to build upon the progress made during challenging times. The UPCEd-UPIS-UP NISMED tri-unit aims to emerge stronger from the crucible of the pandemic, and move forward better equipped to navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving teaching and learning landscape.
