Advancing Flexible Learning: UPOU Kicks Off Digital Transformation Project in BulSU
The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) in partnership with the Higher Education Research and Policy Reform Program (HERPRP) of the University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP CIDS) formally commenced its Digital Transformation Project on June 17-18, 2026, at the E-Library Building of the Bulacan State University (BulSU) in Malolos, Bulacan.
The two-day activity brought together the UPOU research team led by Assoc. Prof. Juvy Lizette M. Gervacio, Asst. Prof. Rose Nonette Capadosa, PhD, Asst Prof. Tricia C. Ascan, MM, Asst Prof. Edmerson Z. Calungsod, MA, Ms. Donalyn Piamonte, faculty members, researchers, and academic stakeholders, through a series of workshops, lectures, and focus group discussions, to identify opportunities and challenges in digital transformation in higher education. The activity also sought to generate insights and possible interventions aligned with Republic Act No. 10650, otherwise known as the Open Distance Learning Act, which institutionalizes open and distance learning in the Philippines. The law mandates that the UPOU serve as a benchmark institution for higher education institutions (HEIs), requiring them to attend workshops, training activities, and lectures facilitated by the UPOU prior to offering Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) courses.
Assoc Prof. Gervacio opened the discussions by presenting the history, evolution, and future possibilities of e-learning in the country. She highlighted the growing role of ODeL in expanding access, promoting lifelong learning, and addressing the diverse educational needs of Filipino learners.
Asst. Prof. Capadosa delivered a session titled “Reimagining Course Design for Flexible Higher Education.” In her lecture, she emphasized the interrelationships among learning outcomes, and teaching and learning activities for developing effective, learner-centered syllabi that support flexible and inclusive education.
Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Ascan shared practical strategies for developing and managing databases of Open Educational Resources (OER). She discussed various techniques and best practices for curating digital learning materials and emphasized the importance of using online content responsibly while respecting intellectual property rights and copyright regulations.
Asst. Prof. Calungsod shared his expertise on the Design of Assessments for ODeL in Higher Education Institutions. He reflected on his experiences as a UPOU faculty member and discussed assessment strategies that uphold academic integrity, foster critical thinking, and ensure the credibility of learning outcomes in online and distance learning environments.
Ms. Dona Lyn Piamonte, the project’s graduate student mentee, introduced UPOU’s associate degree programs and highlighted participatory communication in OER development and collaborative learning design. She shared how collaborative approaches among educators, learners, and stakeholders contribute to creating responsive, inclusive, and sustainable learning environments.
The next event of the Digital Transformation Project will be held on September 10, 2026, 10:00 AM, via an online brownbag session, during which participating researchers will present their initial findings and progress. Registration details will be announced through the official social media platforms of UP CIDS and UPOU. Admission is free.
