IFSU FACULTY BRACE FOR 'NEW NORMAL' IN EDUCATION


In response to the challenges of the 'new normal' in the education landscape, Ifugao State University (IFSU) conducted a "Massive Online Faculty & Students’ Training – Workshop on IFSU LMS Using Moodle App" among its faculty members through Google Meet and Zoom on June 2-19, 2020 across the University’s six campuses.

Said capacity-building activity, purposely slated before the opening of classes for A.Y. 2020-2021, intends to equip the faculty with the necessary skills, knowledge, and proper behavior on the utilization of IFSU Learning Management System (LMS) using Moodle App as a platform for the University’s flexible learning mode.

Notably, IFSU is one of three (3) universities recognized for its distance education initiatives during the Conference on Internationalization of Philippines Tertiary Education in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur in 2019. Through the assistance of the University of the Philippines - Open University (UPOU), IFSU was able to establish an LMS with its own hosting and website.

The LMS has always been utilized in its blended-learning that requires for technology-enhanced education in the graduate programs since 2015. Hence, some faculty members (undergraduate studies) were already able to complete the series of trainings with emphasis on the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) prior the pandemic.

All these efforts in delivering quality education through digital means are also in line with the University's goal of evolving with the times through Education 4.0. This is a desired approach of learning that aligns itself with the emerging fourth industrial revolution.

“This pandemic shall not stop IFSU in delivering its mandate. May we see the challenges brought by these challenging times as opportunities to improve ourselves as learning facilitators. We welcome flexible learning in our bid to bring quality and accessible education to our students,” remarked Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, University President.

As recalled, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) appealed to tertiary education institutions to adopt flexible learning to maximize the learning of students amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Flexible learning, according to CHED Chairperson Prospero De Vera, is not limited to online classes or activities but includes approaches that are applicable and responsive to learners’ circumstances.

Facilitated by the College of Open Distance Education and Transnational Education (CODETE) under the leadership of Dr. Jeng Jeng M. Bolintao who also serves as the Officer-In-charge of the Learning Management System (LMS) in the University, the training-workshop acquainted faculty to the University’s LMS.

The capacity-building activity walked faculty and students through the features of the system. They were also taught the skills and knowledge in accessing the LMS, uploading files or learning packages, embedding links (short videos, reading assignments, etc), creating forum discussions, quizzes, assignments, enrolling students, and monitoring, grading and downloading students’ submissions.

Moreover, participants were capacitated to present an output, prepare and produce LMS brochures for teachers and students, and produce a video-presentation on LMS.

Arri Steven Dulnuan, the current LMS administrator, facilitates the management of databases across campus. The University also designated LMS Chairperson per campus who shall take the responsibilities in uploading all learning modules/packets in the system.