The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) has once again reaffirmed its status as an innovator in online education when its MODeL chatbot solution, Openg, was awarded as the Best Moodle Innovation of 2023 by the Moodle Association of Japan at the Moodle Moot 2024 held on 16-18 February 2024 at the Nagasaki International University, Japan.
As the official platform for the UPOU Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), MODeL consistently receives a high volume of inquiries, ranging from general information to course enrollment. Since Openg’s launch in 2023, it has been aiding users in setting up accounts, registering for courses, and navigating the intricacies of the platform. Users can effortlessly submit their inquiries via either Facebook Messenger or the MODeL website, and Openg will promptly provide the assistance they need. Openg was developed by the UPOU Information and Communication Technology Development Office (ICTDO) team headed by Director Dr. Reinald Adrian Pugoy, Mr. Melvir Nathaniel Paras, Informations System Researcher III, and Ms. Shaira Tanay, MODeL Administrator.
UPOU continues to lead the charge towards a bright future for distance learning through the multiple programs it offers, such as the MOOCs, where 24 courses are scheduled to be offered in 2024, covering topics from the basics of resilience and gender sensitivity to graphic design.
Other delegates from UPOU who attended in the Moodle Moot Japan 2024 include Dr. Jean A. Saludadez, Dr. Reinald Pugoy, Asst. Prof. Luisa Gelisan, Asst. Prof. Lorena Jean Saludadez, Asst. Prof. Cecille Moldez, Dr. Ria Borromeo, Asst. Prof. Shari Eunice San Pablo, Asst. Prof. Blacaflor Arada, and Mr. Melvir Nathaniel Paras.
The UPOU MOOCs is part of its initiatives in fulfillment of its mandate under RA 10650 also known as the “Open Distance Learning Law.” It is also part of UPOU”s commitment to furthering Sustainable Development Goals No. 4 and 17 and as part of its public service thrust of making learning more accessible to more people.
As the institution celebrates its 29th year, UPOU persists in providing accessible, efficient, and excellent education to shape the next generation of online learning.
Written by Alexis Faith Gonzalez ♦ Edited by Myra C. Almodiel and Anna Cañas-Llamas
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