What does ALS means?

ALS is an acronym for Alternative Learning System. It is one of the programs of the Department of Education in the Philippines designed to answer the education needs of Filipinos both in the elementary and secondary levels, who cannot study in the formal schools. In the past few years when the K-12 program has not yet been implemented, once a test taker passes the ALS-Alternative and Equivalency Test Secondary level, they are already qualified to enroll in colleges and universities. However, due to the implementation of the K-12 curriculum, ALS passers still need to study in grade 11 and 12 or the new senior high school to complete secondary education. The ALS learners batch 2015 are the last batch of learners who are not required to undergo grade 11 and 12 anymore. If they pass the test, they are qualified to enroll already in colleges or universities. By next year, or the batch 2016 learners are already covered by the new policy that they have to undergo grade 11 and 12.

Alamin: mga karaniwang tanong tungkol sa ALS at mga kasagutan dito...

What is the basis of establishing the ALS program?

The DepEd explains that the legal basis of ALS is the 1987 Philippine constitution specifically Article XIV, Section 2, Paragraph (1) and (4). These paragraphs mandates the establishment of programs that answers the education needs of the Filipinos.

How does ALS work?

The following excerpt from the DepEd website explains how ALS works.

“ There are two major programs on ALS that are being implemented by the Department of Education, through the Bureau of Alternative Learning System (BALS). One is the Basic Literacy Program and the other is the Continuing Education Program - Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E). Both programs are modular and flexible. This means that learning can take place anytime and any place, depending on the convenience and availability of the learners” (DepEd)

What can you learn in ALS?

As DepEd explains “the learning areas in the ALS are called learning strands which are the equivalent of the subjects in the formal school system ”. It includes the following areas:

• Communication Skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing)
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking (numeracy and scientific thinking)
• Sustainable use of Resources/Productivity (ability to earn a living through self-employment, outside employment, entrepreneurship, sustainable use of resources and appropriate technology and productivity)
• Development of Self and a Sense of Community (self-development, a sense of personal and national history and identity, cultural pride and recognition and understanding of civil and political rights)
• Expanding One’s World Vision (knowledge, respect and appreciation for diversity, peace and non-violent resolution of conflict, and global awareness and solidarity)

(DepEd)