The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) conducted an online benchmarking session for the Philippine House of Representatives-Knowledge Management Systems Bureau (KMSB) on 14 October 2024 via Zoom.
UPOU Chancellor Dr. Melinda Bandalaria received the visitors and facilitated the discussion together with Dr. Myra Almodiel, Director of the UPOU Office of Public Affairs (OPA), and Dr. Reinald Adrian Pugoy, Director of the UPOU Information and Communication Technology Development Office (ICTDO). The delegates from KMSB, headed by Executive Director Roentgen Bronce, included Ms. Katrina Jayne Oprenario, Supervising Legislative Staff Officer; Ms. Mirella Therese Tizon, Legislative Staff Officer; Ms. Lucilla Eting, Supervising Legislative Staff Officer; and Mr. Errol John Ables, Legislative Staff Officer.
The delegates explored UPOU’s Learning Management System (LMS) and the university’s program delivery processes. Director Pugoy presented on UPOU’s LMS, explaining the technical aspects and systems required for delivering open and distance eLearning (ODeL). The discussion also covered cybersecurity measures and other institutional requirements necessary for effective ODeL implementation. Chancellor Bandalaria highlighted UPOU’s approach to customizing and developing course sites within the LMS, stressing the importance of upgrading to the latest version to ensure seamless integration into the educational ecosystem. She emphasized the LMS’s flexibility in supporting various instructional delivery methods. Director Almodiel further elaborated on the LMS’s features, showcasing its functionality.
KMSB delegates declared their intent to foster a collaborative partnership with UPOU in certain projects such as providing distance learning with the Sangguniang Bayan. Chancellor Bandalaria briefly framed the possible collaboration of the UPOU and KMSB by shaping the curriculum and helping put together the learning management system to elevate the lifelong learning engagement of the target participants. In line with RA 10650, the “Open Distance Learning Act,” and its commitment to Sustainable Development Goals No. 4 (Quality Education) and No. 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), UPOU plays a key role in fostering collaboration among various institutions and organizations. This effort seeks to deliver accessible, high-quality education while advancing collective progress in the education sector.
Written by Marinela Hernandez ♦ Edited by Dr. Myra C. Almodiel and Anna Cañas-Llamas ♦ Photo by Anna Mhari Duria
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