EDUCATION 5-THE TEACHER AND THE CURRICULUM

MODULE 9

A Flexible Course on the New Normal Curriculum

Prepared by:
MARIVIE B. TRIVETTE, Ph.D.
MPE Faculty
 EDUCATION 5. THE TEACHER AND THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM

MODULE 9- THE NEW NORMAL CURRICULUM

I.What is the lesson about?

This lesson will focus on the features of the new normal curriculum and the steps in unpacking the
Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCS). It also discusses the learning approaches and modalities
such as face to face, distance learning, blended learning and homeschooling depending on the local health
conditions, the availability of resources, and the particular context of the learners in the school or locality:

II.What will you learn?

In this module, you will learn about distance and blended learning approaches being used in the new normal
curriculum. You will gain more insights by reading and intentional viewing of videos related to the new
normal curriculum.Additionally, you will be able to learn the steps of unpacking the Most Essential Learning
Competencies (MELCS) appropriate in the new normal instructional strategies and assessment tools.

Objectives:

1. Identify the different learning approaches and modalities being used in the new normal curriculum.
2. Give the steps of unpacking the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCS).
3. Collect samples of Modular Distance Learning, Online Distance Learning, and Television/Radio-Based
Instruction being used by teachers in the new normal curriculum as a tetrad.

Activities:

1. Identifying the different learning approaches and modalities being used in the new normal curriculum;
2. Giving the steps of unpacking the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCS); and
3. Collecting samples of Modular Distance Learning, Online Distance Learning, and Television/Radio-
Based Instruction being used by the teachers in the new normal curriculum.
 III. Let’s Try This!

Pre-Assessment. New Normal Bill in Schools, Colleges, Universities, and Other Learning/Training
Institutions. Fill the blank with the correct word to complete the new normal bill statements.

1.Integrate ___________ classes in the curriculum and promote creative ways of student learning and
engagement without physical contact and/or reporting to the classroom;
2. Provide ____________school days and smaller class sizes if and when on-site classes resume;
3. Implement __________ to assemblies, physical education, and recess if and when on-site classes
resume;
4. Establish floor plans conducive to _________distancing; and
5. Provide daily ___________ checks for students and staff, as well as weekly health check-ups

B. Educational Challenges in the New Normal. Watch this video and identify the educational
challenges in the New Normal

Suggested link :
https://youtu.be/7dY9IhipzFs

Educational Challenges in the New Normal :

1._______________________________________
2._______________________________________
3._______________________________________
4._______________________________________
5._______________________________________
6._______________________________________
7._______________________________________

III. Let’s Read!

A. The New Normal Education in the Philippines

Learning in the new normal is a challenge for the teachers, students and even parents. Blended learning is
a combination of both online and offline learning methodologies with the use of technology. Online is when
the students study with their teacher and classmates through an application that uses a webcam while offline
is when the teacher provides the students with the lesson, seatwork or assignment that they can finish at their
own pace, within the deadline. All works are submitted and graded via online.

This new way of learning brought by COVID-19 pandemic can be an additional challenge during this
tough time. And since going back to the “normal” we’re all accustomed to isn’t going to happen anytime
soon, let’s all do the best we could to adjust and make this current situation work. Remember, the goal of
online learning is to keep the students engaged academically in order to retain what they have learned.

B. COMMENTARY: Education won’t be same after the pandemic

Going to brick-and-mortar schools may likewise pose some problems as students and teachers would
still need to maintain physical distancing.

Taking into account the current health crisis, the Department of Education (DepEd) said it would
implement adjustments in the basic education curriculum which, as we see it, is necessary and called for by
the situation.
To confront issues arising from the pandemic, the DepEd said it has crafted a Learning Continuity Plan
(LCP) that will be in effect when school opens on 24 August, three months adrift the original schedule of 1
June.
The LCP is the Education department’s major response to ensure the health, safety and well-being of
students, teachers and personnel in the time of COVID-19 while finding ways for education to continue for
the upcoming school year.
 It has delayed the opening of classes to give both students and teachers time to adjust to the new learning
environment.
The plan includes adjustments on key features of the K-12 curriculum, alignment of learning materials,
various modalities for delivery and corresponding training for teachers and parents for homeschooling.

DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones said the modifications were needed in adapting to the “new
normal” after the emergency crisis. She pointed out that the school opening would not
necessarily mean teachers and students would be in the traditional in-classroom setup as there
may be areas where this is not possible due to the lockdowns.

Briones explained that local public health conditions would be given due consideration in
determining the mode of education, even as DepEd officials raised the possibility of distance
learning, such as the use of online platforms, television, radio and printed materials.

In all probability, learning from home would be the “new normal” for school year 2020-2021 to
ensure the safety and continued education of the country’s more than 27 million learners.
Much as we regret this new normal forced on us by an unseen virus, we have to accept the fact that
education won’t be the same after the pandemic passes. It’s not business as usual as we would like it to be.

Although experimenting with alternative forms of education is commendable, we also have to face the
fact that not all families find homeschooling or online learning to their taste. Having the kids go through their
lessons at the kitchen table doesn’t suit everybody’s schedules or personal needs.
The problem is that being thrown into a situation that’s not of one’s choice is a lot different than entering
it willingly. A lot of parents, for sure, would try to replicate the schoolroom experience at home. That’s an
exhausting approach that’s unnecessary when you realize how little time is used for actual learning in a
typical classroom.
Homeschooling during a pandemic, a lot of stakeholders’ fear, could change education forever. That is
why, we feel that most parents, particularly those with no time to help their children in their homeschooling
needs when they resume working, are looking forward to the old practice of children attending classes in
brick-and-mortar schools.
Traditional education approaches, for them, would still be the best option for their kids after having gone
through what it’s like to practice distance learning.
But then, going to brick-and-mortar schools may likewise pose some problems as students and teachers
would still need to maintain physical distancing to slow down virus transmission.
This could mean allowing only a maximum of only about 20 students in a classroom who would come to
school on staggered schedules.
Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture,
pointed out that going back to school does not necessarily mean face-to-face learning because even when
learners do not report to classrooms, they should continue their lessons at home with the help of flexible
learning modalities, including online platforms, television, radio and printed materials.
He said the mix of digital, low-tech and no-tech methods will help the DepEd reach all learners,
especially those in far-flung areas without access to the Internet. Since not all learners have connectivity and
available gadgets for online-based learning, the senator said television and radio will be key to reaching more
learners nationwide.

Whatever would eventually be implemented, education officials, we believe, should use the time leading to
the opening of classes preparing teachers, parents and learners on how to use different tools for home-based
learning.

That way, the transition would not be as hard for all of us.

What is the new normal in education?

In the new normal, all schools will have blended or purely on-line courses. Training in using
teaching and learning platforms will be available for both teachers and students.
 What are the features of the new curriculum?

Under the new curriculum, the following important features must be noted;
The number of learning areas is to be reduced from seven (7) to four (4) which are integrated
into themes. ...

At Lower and Upper Primary, the number of subjects remains the same. ...
Introduction of standards-based curriculum.

What is distance learning model?

In a Distance Learning model, students and teachers will engage in online learning that is
significantly different from the emergency remote learning that took place in Spring 2020.
Instruction will include daily live interaction with teachers, required attendance, and letter
grades.

Guidance and resources for teachers and families in K–12 schools regarding high quality
distance learning.

For the purposes of the guidance and resources on this page, “distance learning” means
instruction in which the student and instructor are in different locations. This may include
interacting through the use of a computer and communications technology, as well as delivering
instruction and check-in time with the teacher. Distance learning may include video or audio
instruction in which the primary mode of communication between the student and instructor is
online interaction, instructional television, video, telecourses, or other instruction that relies on
computer or communications technology.

It may also include the use of print materials incorporating assignments that are the subject of
written or oral feedback. This page provides guidance and information for teachers, students, and
parents who are transitioning, or have transitioned, to a distance learning model.

C.Philippines - The New Normal in Basic Education.

Legal News & Analysis - Asia Pacific - Philippines - Regulatory & Compliance
4 November 2020

As the country continues to confront different issues brought about by the coronavirus disease
2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Department of Education (DepEd) is addressing the challenges
in the basic education for the school year 2020-2021 through its Basic Education Learning
Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) under DepEd Order No. 012, s. 2020.

The BE-LCP is consistent with the mandate of Section 1, Article XIV of the 1987 Constitution
for the state to protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels, and
to take appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all. Under Section 6, Chapter 1 of
Republic Act No. 9155, or the Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001, DepEd is vested
with the authority, accountability, and responsibility for ensuring access to, promoting equity in,
and improving the quality of basic education.

Hence, the BE-LCP aims to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the learners, teachers,
and personnel in the time of COVID-19, while finding ways for education to continue amidst the
crisis. In particular, the BE-LCP has been designed with a legal framework responsive to the
“new normal,” keeping in mind the constitutional mandate to uphold the right of all citizens to
quality education at all times.
In line with this, the learning delivery modalities that schools can adopt may be one or a
combination of the following, depending on the local health conditions, the availability of
resources, and the particular context of the learners in the school or locality:

1. Face-to-face. This refers to a modality where the students and the teacher are both
physically present in the classroom, and there are opportunities for active engagement,
immediate feedback, and socio-emotional development of learners. Notably, this modality is
feasible only in very low risk areas with no history of infection, easily monitored external
contacts, and with teachers and learners living in the vicinity of the school.

2. Distance learning. This refers to a modality where learning takes place between the teacher
and the learners who are geographically remote from each other during instruction. This
modality has three types, namely: Modular Distance Learning, Online Distance Learning, and
Television/Radio-Based Instruction. This is most viable for independent learners, and learners
supported by periodic supervision of parents or guardians.

3. Blended Learning. This refers to a learning delivery that combines face-to-face with any, or a
mix of, Modular Distance Learning, Online Distance Learning, and Television/Radio-Based
Instruction. Blended learning will enable the schools to limit face-to-face learning, ensure social
distancing, and decrease the volume of people outside the home at any given time.
 4. Homeschooling. This modality aims to provide learners with quality basic education that is
facilitated by qualified parents, guardians, or tutors who have undergone relevant training in a
home-based environment. However, this modality will be the subject of a later DepEd issuance
since there remain several issues in its implementation, including the supervision of licensed
teachers and alignments with the standard curriculum.

In application, however, the BE-LCP is confronted with different challenges.

First, in the implementation of the various learning delivery modalities, the challenge will be in
dealing with learners under any of the modes of distance learning or blended learning who are
not capable of learning independently, or who are not periodically supported by their parents or
guardians. Also critical for the implementation will be the mass production of the needed
teachers and learners’ learning materials, as well as the support of media institutions like TV and
radio stations.

Second, DepEd will need substantial and additional financial resources in order to meet the
objectives of the BE-LCP. This is where the support of the respective local government units,
civil society organizations, and other stakeholders become indispensable.

Third, the holistic development of students will likely be affected. With the BE-LCP in place,
the students will have limited opportunities for interaction with their teachers and classmates.
Thus, their learning outcomes may be affected, and there may be negative impacts on the
students who cannot easily cope with the change. This is where support interventions not only by
DepEd but also by the family becomes relevant to mitigate this effect.

Verily, the learning environment amidst the COVID-19 pandemic will be very different. Yet, the
DepEd is optimistic that despite the various socio-economic situations of families which affect
the provision of learning support in the home, and the peculiar needs of different learners, the
BE-LCP could be the key to providing quality basic education which is accessible and
responsive in the new normal.

IV. Let’s Study

Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCS)

What is MELCs?
MOST ESSENTIAL LEARNING COMPETENCIES
DM NO. 89, S. 2020 | CLARIFICATIONS ON THE USE OF THE MOST ESSENTIAL
LEARNING COMPETENCIES (MELCs) AND OTHER RELATED ISSUES
Posted on May 19, 2020 | 11:17 am by Administrative Assistant III
 1. Pursuant to Unnumbered Memorandum from the Office of the Undersecretary for Curriculum
and Instruction issued on May 6, 2020 titled Clarifications on the Use of the Most Essential
Learning Competencies (MELCs) and Other Related Issues, this Office directs all schools to
report any activity related to the selling of MELCs to DepEd OUCI through its email at
ouci@deped.gov.ph.

2. The MELCs were provided by DepEd as the primary reference for all Schools, Schools
Division Offices (SD0s) and Regional Offices (R0s) in determining and implementing learning
delivery approaches that are suited to the local context and diversity of learners, while adapting
to the challenges posed by COVID-19. Schools are hereby instructed to refer to the MELCs in
creating learning activity sheets, self-learning modules, and other instructional materials.
Moreover, schools are enjoined to adhere to the content of the MELCs and refrain from creating
a new list of learning competencies for different learning areas.

3. Relatively, this Office hereby advises all teachers to refrain from buying ready-made lesson
plans, periodical examinations, summative tests, modules and the like. This Office through the
Curriculum Implementation Division (CID) is trying its best to provide all those materials for the
teachers.

Importance of unpacking and combining the MOST ESSENTIAL LEARNING

COMPETENCIES (MELCs)

It is important to unpack and combine MELCs to systematize learning activities and effectively
address the varying needs of learners and the challenges of instructional deliveries.

What does it mean to unpack a standard? Simply put, standards aren't always written in the most
accessible language. ... Unpacking a standard means to analyze that language, extracting clues
that describe two aspects of the standard that students need to know: essential knowledge and
essential skills.

Study more on the guidelines, procedures and examples on this link:

https://commons.deped.gov.ph/MELCS-Guidelines.pdf

Watch these video links for unpacking MELCS:

https://youtu.be/zADj0k0waFY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqHYpVV39dc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8LSubWj1yU

Read about “The Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan in the Time of Pandemic:

https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/DepEd_LCP_July3.pdf

 Let’s Reflect.
What learning modalities do most secondary schools use today? Support your answer with facts ,
reasons or studies.
If you were a professional teacher now, how would you adjust to the new normal curriculum?

VI. Let’s Apply (Assessment)

Directions: Do number 1, choose one from the options under number 2, then do numbers 3 and 4.
Another choice is number 6 below.

1.Search for a copy of Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCS) for high school learners.
 2. With your tetrad, choose one (1) from the following tasks and make a compendium of your
collection.

a.Search and collect samples of modules for distance Learning in different learning areas in the
high school level. Analyze and discuss the competencies used based on the MELCS.(3 samples)
b.Search and collect sample videos for online Distance Learning, Analyze and discuss the
competencies used based on the MELCS.(3 samples)
c. Search and collect lessons for Television being used in a school; Analyze the competencies
used based on the MELCS.(3 samples)
d.Search and collect lessons for Radio-Based Instruction being used in school; Analyze the
competencies used based on the MELCS. (3 samples)
e. Collect movie clips/videos/articles/researches about homeschooling. Give implications
about homeschooling and relate it to the new normal education curriculum.(2-3 samples)

3.Share your collection/compendium with the class in a form of digital storytelling. Indicate some
meaningful lines below your illustrations as you tell stories .

4.Fill out this form before turning in: This will serve as your required elements.

a..Purpose :(Think of a theme /title of your collection )

b.Description: (Describe the contents )

c.Explanation :(Show the relationship of your output to the new normal education features)

d.References: (scholarly articles and materials)

Rubrics in Grading the Creative Output: Digital Story Telling

1.Required Elements-30% -___________
Goes over and above all the required elements stated in the directions & instructions
2.Creativity-25% -__________
Clever and unique in showing deep understanding
3.Attractiveness -15%-___________
Attractive and particularly neat in design and layout
4.Grammar- 15%-_________
No grammatical or mechanical mistakes in the output

5.Effectiveness and Completeness -15%

Output is engagingly organized and presents material that is captivating for the viewers

6. Simulate a 15-minute recorded lesson with one MELC and do it via Google meet with your tetrad. One
acts as the teacher and the three act as students. (Raise your questions if there’s any difficulty).
References:

Suggested links and websites:

1. https://www.conventuslaw.com/report/philippines-the-new-normal-in-basic-education/
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqHYpVV39dc
3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8LSubWj1yU
4. https://youtu.be/OufWzZqLhiw
5. https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/DepEd_LCP_July3.pdf
6. https://www.educationinnovations.org/post/the-new-normal-what-skills-does-the-year-2020-teacher-
and-beyond-need
7. https://youtu.be/7dY9IhipzFs

ANSWER KEY.

(Let’s Try This)

A.New Normal Bill in Schools, Colleges, Universities, and Other Learning/Training Institutions.

1.Integrate online classes in the curriculum and promote creative ways of student learning and engagement
without physical contact and/or reporting to the classroom;
2. Provide staggered school days and smaller class sizes if and when on-site classes resume;
3. Implement changes to assemblies, physical education, and recess if and when on-site classes resume;
4.Establish floor plans conducive to physical distancing; and
5. Provide daily temperature checks for students and staff, as well as weekly health check-ups.

B.Educational Challenges in the New Normal

1.Poor Internet Connectivity

2.Module Concerns
3.Family Support
4.Lack of Technological Capacity
5.Pedagogy
6.Stakeholder’s Preparedness
7.Issues on Assessment