eSkwela project - eSchool for out-of-school youths and adults, Philippines

Abstract

There are 774 million non-literates globally (UNESCO, 2009) and there is the acute problem of illiteracy grave in South Asian region. The paper discusses the implementation of eSkwela project as Alternative Learning System (ALS) in Philippines. The initiative responds directly to a national development priority to bring elearning opportunities and Information Communication Technology (ICT) for learning resources to mobile teachers / instructional managers and out-of-school learners in the Philippines. The paper assesses how the eSkwela project initiatives have provided opportunities for remote and elearning, blended learning and how Alternative Learning System (ALS) has been supported by innovative use of ICT for content development. It presents a macro view, case study of the strategic approach, design, challenges and successes faced by the eSkwela project which is still a work in progress. Rudiments in ICT for Education for citizens to attain the new-age literacy and lifelong learning opportunities are also evaluated.