THE DEPARTMENT of Education is validating reports that the number of students participating in distance learning has dwindled.

“We are validating that information if it’s really the participation in our online distance learning modality, we have made sure that there is always an option,” Undersecretary Diosdado San Antonio said.

San Antonio made the statement after Teachers’ Dignity Coalition Chairman Benjo Basas claimed that fewer students are attending online classes and submitting learning modules.

“Nakikita po namin na bumaba ang bilang ng mga bata dun sa participation both in modular and online mode. Kung dati out of 40 na estudyante, may uma-attend pa na hanggang 30 maximum, ngayon bumaba na po talaga, ‘di na po iyan nangangalahati,” Basas said.

San Antonio also said that students should not be alarmed and overwhelmed with online learning since it is not the only option for distance learning.

“The issue of online learning not being sustained should not alarm all of us because we always provide options for other distance learning delivery modality,” he said.

San Antonio pointed out that the motivation of the students to participate in distance learning heavily depends on the approach of the parents and teachers.