Here in the Philippines, typhoons and excessive summer heat are the main reasons for class suspensions. For internal stakeholders like teachers and students, these natural phenomena can result in learning gaps and missed opportunities for progress. What can the education sector do to solve these issues?

Blended learning, a flexible mix of online and face-to-face teaching, is a practical way to keep students on track with their education, especially when the weather is unpredictable. Imagine a scenario where students can seamlessly switch to online lessons at home, ensuring continuous learning regardless of the weather conditions.

The Department of Education (DepEd) views blended learning as a mechanism for ensuring continuity. Teachers can communicate with their pupils via digital channels, providing real-time advice and feedback. Students could learn independently, accessing lessons and materials whenever it was safe and convenient.

While there may still be hurdles to full implementation, such as guaranteeing internet access, blended learning provides optimism. It enables education to adapt to the country’s climate, ensuring learning is not halted even during storms or excessive heat. This alternative delivery mode empowers the young generation to continue their education amidst different weather conditions.