SILLIMAN University hosted a regional e-learning seminar for teachers and administrators of schools in Cebu and Negros Oriental.
Spearheaded by the College of Computer Studies (CCS), the regional seminar of the Philippine eLearning Society (PeLS) served as a venue for participants to discuss topics on tools, trends and methodologies in e-learning.
The seminar sought to promote e-learning in carrying out the tri-focal function of instruction, research and extension among academic institutions. Presentations and discussions took on the theme “Substantive Content, Appropriate Pedagogy and Use of Technology for e-Learning.”
CCS Dean Dr. Dave Marcial, vice president for PeLS Region 7, headed both the planning team and the delegation from Silliman.
Topics discussed were “Theoretical Foundations of e-Learning” by Dr. Maria Ana Quimbo from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños, “Instructional Design Principles: Putting Forward the Pedagogical Perspective of eLearning” by Benevieve Daamo-Villanueva of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs and “Mahara, Facebook-Like eLearning Facility” by Dr. Raffy Mananghaya of the College of Economics and Management.
Silliman’s Information Technology department chairperson engineer Ed Omictin III also shared the university’s experience in developing and promoting the use of its online learning platform, in his presentation, “The Silliman Online University Learning (SOUL): Challenges and Opportunities.”
PeLS president Leandre Dacanay, a consultant to the Asian Development Bank, capped the seminar with his presentation “Connecting Communities through PeLS.”
PeLS continues to develop programs aligned with its thrust: “to lead the development of e-learning competencies through education and trainings and to promote collaboration among eLearning practitioners.”
An election of officers took place before the closing ceremony.
The PeLS Region 7 Chapter officers are engineer Ed Omictin III, Silliman University president; Ralp Laviste, Cebu Institute of Technology University vice president; Joy Dy, Metro Dumaguete College secretary; Dr. Elve Nasvik, Balanced Achievement School of Excellence Inc. treasurer and Dr. Virgilio Abellana, University of San Jose Recoletos auditor.