The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is a parallel learning system in the Philippines that provides a practical option to the existing formal instruction. When one does not have or cannot access formal educations in school, ALS is an alternate or substitute.
Many Filipinos do not have a chance to attend and finish formal basic education (Grades 1-6 and Year I-IV[now Grades 7-10]) due to many reasons. Some drop out from schools while some do not have schools in their communities. Example of which is the SitioAryada in the upper area of Barangay Peas, Limay, Bataan where a small group of Aeta people lives. Since every Filipino has a right to free basic education, the Government establishes ALS to provide all Filipinos the chance to have access to and complete basic education in a mode that fits their district situations and needs.
One good and distinct approach of ALS is conducting non-formal classes outside the classroom. It is community-based, usually conducted at community learning centers, barangay multi-purpose hall, libraries or at home, managed by ALS learning facilitators, such as mobile teachers, district ALS coordinators, instructional managers at an agreed schedule and venue between the learners and facilitators. Making it easier for the learners to undergo the program at their own pace and availability.
The different programs of ALS will cater every person who somehow hopes to acquire education outside the four corners of the classrooms. We find it more encouraging for those who have lesser opportunity in education.
ALS has a Basic Literary Program aimed at eradicating illiteracy among out-of-school youth and adults by developing basic literacy skills of reading, writing, and numeracy. To enumerate all, the following became the cliché of DepEd’s non-formal education; Program for dropouts of formal Elementary and Secondary Levels, the Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) program, pogram for Indigenous People, program for Muslim Migrants, program for Hearing Impaired, for Adolescent Reproductive Health, Parent Education, Poor Families, Radio-Based Instruction and program for Disadvantaged Children.
All these aim to provide hope for every Filipino from all walks of life who wants to become productive and successful. For someone who wants to redeem dignity and pride, ALS is indeed the best alternative.
By: Jonah Hanzel Reyes
