Innovative learning
School-in-a-Bag recipients are also trained on the CVIF-Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF-DLP) teaching methodology. First implemented in the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) in Jagna, Bohol, the disaster-resilient form of education promotes independent learning. Students work on activity sheets 80% of the time, while teachers conduct lectures for the remaining 20%.
CVIF-DLP has reportedly boosted the academic performance of students in more than 100 public and private schools nationwide. Schools that have adopted the methodology record enhanced academic performance, especially in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines.
Teachers such as Faith Bernardio from Kalumenga Elementary School in Maguindanao, said the teaching methodology allows educators to focus more on the quality – rather than quantity – of their teaching. “DLP makes work easier for teachers, as students practice independence and critical thinking,” she stated.
No learner left behind
Since 2016, Smart and its partners have donated a 109 School-in-a-Bag units to various learning institutions nationwide, 83 of which were turned over in 2018 alone. To date, the Program has benefitted over thirty thousand students and over a thousand teachers in communities all over the country.
The School-in-a-Bag kits provided to schools in the Bangsamoro region were donated by Smart and the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) with the support of the Philippines Business for Social Progress (PBSP), Synergeia Foundation, and the local government units around the province. “We hope to create more partnerships with other organizations to reach more remote schools in the Philippines,” said Stephanie Orlino, Senior Manager for Education, Smart Public Affairs.
Smart emphasized how strong partnerships with community stakeholders are essential in developing Learn Smart programs. “From partnerships with government and non-government offices, local government units, companies, academe, advocacy groups, and media, we all need to work together to help build a nation where no learner is left behind,” said Darwin F. Flores, Community Partnerships Head, Smart Public Affairs.
Interested parties who wish to learn more about Smart’s educational programs can visit the Smart Communities Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SmartCommunities or email learnsmart@smart.com.ph.
