Maximizing the Educational Outcomes of the Alternative Learning System: A Basis for Program Enhancement

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In the midst of borderless learning, competitive society, the rapid increase in knowledge, the fast pace of changing technology and varying skills and knowledge needs and demands dictated by culture, learning environment, politics and the society themselves, have created a breakthrough in education the Alternative Learning System (ALS). The dynamics of education has evolved from traditional views to a viable learning environment to be able to meet the varying needs of various learning groups. Alternative Learning System has a vision of empowering learners through more responsive quality programs and to ensure that the learning needs of all young people and adults are met through equitable access to appropriate learning and life skills program. While its mission is to empower the Filipino with desirable knowledge, attitudes, values skills that will enable him to think critically and creatively, act innovatively and humanely in improving the quality of his family, community, and country.

METHODS

This study used the descriptive method of research to trace the status of Alternative Learning System Accreditation and Equivalency Program in the Division of Lipa City. This method was deemed most appropriate in identifying the status and practices of the variables used in the study.

RESULTS

Generally, 51% of the ALS learners (respondents) were at ages 15-20 years old, 33% were at ages 21-25-year-old and the remaining were at ages 26 and above. Also, the majority of the ALS Learners were males with 56% and females 44% respectively. The result shows that the perceptions of two groups of respondents on Alternative Learning System's Accreditation and Equivalency Program in the Division of Lipa City in terms of Program Objectives, Curriculum Coverage, Teachers' Competency, Learning Materials, Learning Centers and Advocacy on Social Mobilization have been fully observed and descriptively interpreted as "Very Great Extent". Findings also revealed that there is no significant difference between the perceptions of the two groups of respondents in the given indicators.

DISCUSSIONS

Generally, the Alternative Learning System's Accreditation and Equivalency Program in the Schools Division of Lipa City has been fully implemented. As an output of the studies, the researcher crafted an action plan which includes projects and activities to sustain and strengthen the program.