Brunch | DepEd's plan to reduce SHS core subjects a 'good move' - expert

Summary

The Education Department plans to reduce subjects in grades 11 and 12 to focus on work immersion, aiming to better prepare senior high school students for the workforce. Professor Elanor Barami from USC College of Education discusses the initiative's potential, emphasizing the balance between academic foundations and practical skills. She also highlights the importance of collaboration with employers and agencies like TESDA. The conversation explores challenges such as students' motivation, job prospects, and the need for curriculum alignment between educational levels.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Department of Education (DepEd) plans to reduce the subjects offered in grades 11 and 12 starting next school year.
• 😀 Education Secretary San Angara emphasized that the senior high school curriculum will focus more on work immersion to prepare students for the workforce.
• 😀 The Employers' Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) is collaborating with DepEd on this initiative to increase employability among senior high school graduates.
• 😀 Prof. Elanor Barami from USC College of Education supports the reduction of subjects, noting it was a well-consulted decision to enhance work readiness.
• 😀 DepEd's plan includes maintaining around five to six core subjects to ensure students still acquire essential competencies and knowledge.
• 😀 Soft skills are a priority in the new curriculum, as they are crucial for success in the workplace alongside technical knowledge.
• 😀 Reading comprehension, writing, and speaking are critical foundational skills that should remain a focus in education.
• 😀 Students opting for a technical-vocational track (Tech-Voc) will have more knowledge-based subjects aligned with workplace needs.
• 😀 Some students may choose to work right after senior high school, which raises concerns about whether they will continue their education or remain employed.
• 😀 There is a risk that students who begin earning early may choose not to pursue a college degree, but many developed countries encourage working students to balance both work and education.
• 😀 The salaries of high school graduates may be lower than those with a college degree, but DepEd and other agencies like TESDA are working on solutions to make sure students are adequately prepared for both work and further education.

Q & A

What is the primary plan for senior high school next school year as discussed by the Education Secretary?

The Education Secretary, San Angara, stated that the plan is to reduce the number of subjects offered in grades 11 and 12, focusing more on work immersion to make senior high school graduates more qualified for employment.

How does the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (EOP) fit into the plan for the senior high school curriculum?

The EOP is coordinating with the Department of Education (DepEd) to ensure that the new curriculum aligns with employer needs and enhances the employability of senior high school graduates.

What is Professor Elanor Barami's opinion on the reduction of subjects in senior high school?

Professor Barami supports the move, as she believes it is a good decision that increases employability by working closely with employers and consulting other agencies, ultimately equipping students with the necessary skills for the workplace.

Will students still receive foundational knowledge despite the reduction in subjects?

Yes, DepEd plans to maintain five to six core subjects to ensure students still gain essential knowledge and competencies. However, there will also be a focus on soft skills like communication, which are necessary in the workforce.

Is reading comprehension and speaking a key focus in the new curriculum?

Yes, Professor Barami emphasizes that these skills are foundational and should still be enhanced while students gain practical work experience, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals.

What about students who opt for technical-vocational tracks? Will they still get theoretical knowledge?

Students in technical-vocational tracks will receive theoretical knowledge tailored to their chosen field, ensuring they are prepared for practical work in their respective industries.

How does the current employment landscape impact the K-12 program, according to the discussion?

It was noted that some employers still prefer college graduates, leading to a conversation about the need to reassess hiring practices and consider the growing relevance of technical skills and work immersion for high school graduates.

What role will National Certificates from TESDA play in the new curriculum?

The plan includes allowing senior high school students, especially those in technical-vocational tracks, to earn National Certificates from TESDA, adding value to their work experience and enhancing their employability.

How might the reduction in subjects affect students’ decisions to pursue higher education?

While some students may be encouraged to enter the workforce immediately after senior high school due to work immersion, others may still opt to pursue a college degree. It ultimately depends on the individual’s motivation and career goals.

What concerns were raised about the impact of recent typhoons on education in the Philippines?

It was highlighted that recent typhoons have affected classrooms, but there is hope that the current leadership at DepEd, along with new appointees, will address these challenges and work to improve educational infrastructure.