APC approves flexible learning proposal for 7 weeks; Class mode depends on faculty

The Academic Planning Committee (APC) has officially approved the proposal to implement flexible learning modalities for students who will be taking General Education Courses (GEC) under the College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (CNSM).

Submitted by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA) during the August 6 meeting, the proposal also tackled concerns about this year’s classroom setup and scheduling in response to the ongoing renovation of campus facilities, which began in July to create more space and provide a more comfortable environment for students.

© Ashley Louisa Loyloy

However, the VCAA highlighted that the decision whether to conduct synchronous or asynchronous classes is up to the faculty.

“It is up to the students to negotiate with their professors,” VCAA answered when asked about instances where faculties chose face-to-face classes instead of the alternatives.

The said proposal was thoroughly discussed by the Supreme Student Council (SSC), together with the VCAA, Vice Chancellor in Student Affairs and Services (VCSAS), and deans of the different colleges.

According to the source, the memorandum about flexible learning modalities will be released soon.

Online classes inside campus

In a concern raised by the VCSAS and the SSC about the need of students to attend classes via face-to-face set-up, the VCAA immediately answered ‘Yes’ indicating students must attend the said set-up of classes.

Moreover, the SSC followed a question concerning the current unavailability of internet connectivity inside the campus.

“The ICTO will strengthen the Starlink platform in the campus,” VCAA aptly answered. The Vice Chancellor then answered about the conflict of scheduling in the demand of synchronous and asynchronous classes.

Rejected for some reason

SSC’s proposal for all GEC subjects to conduct online classes, rejected by the VCAA sparking various concerns.

“CHED requires students to go to school physically citing the CNU (Cebu Normal University) issue,” VCAA stated.

Additionally, a dean from one of the colleges attended, answered a concern whether all subjects will be held online or not.

“GEC courses with available classrooms will conduct F2F classes,” one of the deans stated.

It was then seconded by the VCAA stating CSSH GEC subjects and Math GEC will have the option to go synchronous or asynchronous. 

Moreover, subjects such as Physical Education should be attended in a face to face medium of classes.

The said medium of classes will be implemented on August 11 and It is expected to last for seven weeks.