The “New Normal” in the Academe

Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong believed that every academic institution should embrace distance learning as the new modality of education in the “New Normal”, as stated during her interview last September 28, 2020, at Mabalacat City College.

Under the “New Normal”, MCC offered three (3) options. The options are based on the capability or incapability of the students' families to provide technological tools. According to the options, Online learning is offered for those who have the tool and connectivity at the comfort of their home. For those with gadgets only, E-modules are to be accessed at their designated digital hubs. For those without any, printed modules are provided. Dr. Ong explained that submission of final requirements is lenient this Academic Year due to the situation circumstances beyond the control of both students and MCC and in case of lockdowns affected students are provided tablets containing modules.

“Despite the pandemic, MCC took the advantage of integrating cross border learning through an International Webinar Series that featured speakers from Harvard and Oxford University. New Normal is different and challenging, it needs the support and understanding of everyone”, Ong further said.