The Caraga State University (CSU) conducted a benchmarking visit to the UP Open University (UPOU) on 25 March 2025 at the UPOU Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna.
Newly appointed Quality Assurance Office (QAO) Director, Asst. Prof. Ria Valerie Cabanes, welcomed the visitors, led by Dr. Ruth E. Sanchez, Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The CSU delegation included Ms. Janine S. Gelaga, Associate Dean; Mr. Mark Vincent Vergara, Chair for Communication; Dr. Desiree Gonzales, Chair for Social Work; Ms. Connie Fern Mirana, Chair for Sociology; Ms. Loressa Paguta, Chair for Psychology; Dr. Rustum Salva, Research Coordinator; Ms. Maricel Palasan, Extension Coordinator; and Ms. Nizza Villahermosa, Quality Assurance Management Services (QUAMs) Coordinator.
The CSU delegates aimed to explore best practices in Open and Distance eLearning (ODeL) and the UPOU’s innovative instructional strategies and approaches in enhancing flexible and accessible learning during their visit.
The discussions focused primarily on the implementation and long-term sustainability of the College’s extension program. They also discussed the use of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and Microcredentials to address community needs. The discussion also covered the role of facilitators, coordinators, and partners in the development of such online courses.
Director Cabanes discussed the importance of aligning extension programs with institutional vision and capacity, flagship initiatives, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The CSU delegates expressed interest in developing their own MOOCs as an extension program for the community. They sought guidance on programs’ impact evaluation and long-term sustainability to promote lifelong learning.
As part of its commitment to RA 10650, the Open Distance Learning Act, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) No. 4 (Quality Education) and No. 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), UPOU leads in fostering collaboration among various institutions and organizations. These efforts seek to promote inclusive, high-quality education while advancing shared progress in the education sector.
Written by Marinela Hernandez ♦ Edited by Primo Garcia and Anna Cañas-Llamas
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