MANILA- The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) asked universities and colleges Monday to train their teachers on flexible learning arrangements as the education system shifts to a new normal due to the coronavirus pandemic.

CHEd Chairman Prospero de Vera III said he asked universities and colleges to submit proposals on how they plan to train their educators on flexible learning.

Universities and colleges have until June to "firm up" their plans on flexible learning, he said.

"We are rolling out a massive training program for teachers. I have issued the memorandum asking universities that can train teachers on flexible learning to submit proposals already to the commission for approval so they can start training teachers late May or early June," De Vera said in a virtual press briefing.

Flexible learning, De Vera clarified, should not be limited to online classes or activities. Among the other activities that he suggested are take-home exercises, and educational packets.

"Hindi po natin papayagan na ang mga eskwelahan ay gagamit ng system na naagrabyado ang mga estudyante," he said.

(We will not allow schools to use systems that would put students at a disadvantage.)

• Colleges, universities should consult students on next academic year: CHED

Opening of classes for higher education institutions meanwhile will remain in August, De Vera said, noting that only universities and colleges using the old academic calendar (June to March) would need to shift.

"We are not changing the opening of classes. What will change is that many private universities who are still using the old calendar will now move to August," he said.

"Those who still have difficulty and will still use residential or face-to-face classes can open later or in September," he added.

• Colleges, universities with flexible learning can start classes in August: CHED