THE DEPARTMENT of Education partnered with Solar Learning channel and Thames International School to develop a TV-based learning program that will complement the paper-based modules being used in pre-school to Grade 3.

Director Wilfredo Cabral of DepED-National Capital Region believes that TV-based learning can enhance the effectiveness of distance learning particularly among young students.

“TV-based instruction is the most accessible, appropriate and responsive learning delivery modality for the first key stage of learning supplemented by printed modules to develop the psychomotor skills of the learners,” Cabral said after the signing of the memorandum of agreement with Solar Learning and Thames International School.

Under the partnership, DepEd content developers will work with Solar Learning production to develop learning modules for TV. All produced content will be aired on Solar’s digital terrestrial television channel, to be known as Solar Learning DepEd NCR Channel.

Meanwhile, Thames International will provide training for teachers on how to use television as an instructional tool.

Wilson Tieng, CEO of Solar Entertainment, the parent company of Solar Learning, said the partnership with DepEd and Thames International supports the company’s goal to address the concerns of many parents who cannot afford online learning for their young children due to limited resources, and lack of internet connectivity.

“This is a great opportunity for us to show that TV is an affordable and far-reaching medium to entertain and educate,” Tieng said.

Joel Santos, President of Thames International, said the partnership is a wholistic solution to the challenges being faced by teachers, students, and their families during the pandemic.

“All bases are covered from curriculum development, access via TV broadcast and teacher training to ensure that our students are able to learn effectively despite the pandemic,” he said.