Online Learning Preferred Over In-Person Teaching Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Medical experts from the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) and the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines (PIDSP) emphasized the importance of online learning as a preferred teaching method to ensure the safety of students and teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a media conference, resource speakers discussed the benefits of online learning, the impact of COVID-19 on children, and strategies to prevent transmission of the disease once in-person classes are allowed. The PPS and PIDSP have crafted guidelines for schools to follow once face-to-face classes are allowed, focusing on infection control and prevention of COVID-19 transmission.
Key Takeaways:
- Online learning is the preferred teaching method, over in-person teaching, to prevent and reduce COVID-19 transmission among students.
- The majority of COVID-19 cases in children are mild, but the role of children in transmitting the virus is still unclear.
- School closure was a public health measure, and re-opening of classes remains a "huge challenge" especially the resumption of in-person classroom teaching.
- The PPS and PIDSP issued interim recommendations for schools in the Philippine setting, focusing on infection control and prevention of COVID-19 transmission.
- Guidelines have been developed with proper usage of references and in full cognizance of the risk versus benefits in school resumption.
- Children of all ages can be affected by COVID-19, with around 45% of them being asymptomatic.
- Proper hygiene, wearing masks, and practicing physical distancing are essential to protect children against COVID-19.
- The PPS launched its 3Ws infographic campaign to educate children and parents on preventive measures against COVID-19.
Statistics:
- 45% of children with COVID-19 are asymptomatic.
- Majority of COVID-19 cases in children are mild.
- School closure was a public health measure to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19.
Sources:
- (Philippine Pediatric Society, Inc.)
- (Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines)
- (Department of Education)