Online Learning Preferred Over In-Person Teaching Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Strategic Insights -

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)