The Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (DepEd ALS) is an educational initiative in the Philippines designed to provide a practical and convenient way for out-of-school youths and adults to continue their education. It is tailored for those who have missed or cut short their formal schooling and now seek to finish their basic education in a non-traditional setting. This DepEd program extends educational opportunities to marginalized sectors, including indigenous peoples, the differently-abled, street children, and even incarcerated individuals. Essentially, anyone who lacks access to standard school settings can benefit from ALS.
Also Read: DepEd Home Study Program: How to Enroll in Homeschooling in the Philippines
Participants of the DepEd ALS program can expect a flexible learning schedule that adapts to their personal circumstances, allowing them to balance schooling with livelihood or personal responsibilities. The program boasts self-paced study modules and instruction, with learners receiving guidance from facilitators rather than traditional teachers. Direct benefits of completing ALS include accreditation and certification that are equivalent to a traditional school diploma. With this certification, ALS graduates become eligible for further education, gainful employment, and can even pursue entrepreneurial endeavors or community leadership roles.
Overview
In the Philippines, while traditional schooling through the K-12 curriculum program addresses the learning needs of many, it may not always be able to cater to everyone’s circumstances. This limitation leaves some individuals without access to formal education. To address this challenge, the Department of Education (DepEd) has introduced the Alternative Learning System (ALS).
ALS is an innovative program that offers a flexible and non-traditional approach to learning, complementing the traditional K-12 program. Its aim is to provide quality education to individuals from marginalized sectors who may have missed out on formal schooling due to various hindrances. By empowering these individuals, ALS helps them obtain an education and improve their quality of life.
Logo of DepEd ALS Program
Below is a logo that represents the ALS project of DepEd:
Who is DepEd ALS for?
DepEd ALS caters to
- out-of-school youths and adults.
- It helps those who couldn’t complete basic education.
- It includes dropouts, those with limited access to formal education, or those with study disruptions.
- It serves indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, street children, and incarcerated individuals seeking education.
Many Filipinos do not have the opportunity to attend and complete formal basic education (Grade School and High School) for a variety of reasons. Some students drop out of school, while others live in areas without education facilities. Since every Filipino has the right to free basic education, the government created ALS to give all Filipinos the opportunity to access and complete basic education in a way that is tailored to their specific situations and requirements.
The DepEd ALS is primarily designed for individuals who, for one reason or another, were unable to complete formal education through the traditional schooling system. This encompasses a broad spectrum of learners, including
- Out-of-school youth – Youth who were unable to attend or complete formal schooling due to financial constraints, family responsibilities, or other personal circumstances.
- Adults – Adults who did not have the opportunity to finish their basic education during their younger years but are now seeking to complete their education for personal development or career advancement.
- Persons with disabilities – Individuals with disabilities who may face challenges in accessing traditional education settings but can benefit from alternative learning methods tailored to their needs.
- Indigenous – Indigenous communities often face barriers to accessing formal education due to geographical remoteness, cultural differences, and socio-economic factors. ALS provides a flexible and culturally sensitive approach to education for these communities.
Benefits of DepEd ALS
- Accessibility – ALS reaches out to marginalized and underserved populations, providing them with opportunities for education that they may have otherwise been denied.
- Flexibility – Unlike traditional schooling, ALS offers flexible learning systems, allowing learners to study at their own pace and in their own time, accommodating their personal circumstances and responsibilities.
- Tailored Learning – ALS recognizes almost all the learning needs of its participants and employs learner-centered approaches that cater to individual learning styles and preferences.
- Holistic Development – Beyond academic subjects, ALS also focuses on developing life skills, values, and attitudes essential for personal and socio-economic empowerment.
- Community Engagement – ALS promotes community involvement and partnerships, fostering a supportive learning environment that extends beyond the confines of the classroom.
- Accreditation and Certification – Upon completion of the ALS program, learners receive certification equivalent to formal education, enabling them to pursue further education or employment opportunities.
How to Apply for DepEd ALS Program
Applying for the DepEd ALS program is a straightforward process via Learner Information System (LIS) online portal.
Step 1: Go to the LIS website http://lis.deped.gov.ph/ and log in using your LIS user account.
Step 2: Once logged in, select the Learner Information System option.
Step 3: On the ALS Control Panel, click the Enrol learner button to begin.
Step 4: Click on the Continue button.
Step 5: Search the ALS learner by LRN or name. Next, click the Continue button.
Step 6: Update the following the required fields.
Step 7: After selecting/creating a new CLC, click the Enrolment button.
Step 8: You will receive a notification once you have successfully enrolled.
Step 9: Return to the ALS Control Panel to see if the ALS learner reflected in the Master List.
Note: The CLC ID will be generated after enrolling the first ALS learner. Students with ALS can now examine their enrollment history.
Changes to these steps may occur with no further notice, so make sure to keep yourself updated from time to time.
After ALS
Completing the DepEd ALS program opens up a multitude of opportunities graduates:
- Further Education- ALS graduates can pursue higher education through formal schooling, technical-vocational courses, or specialized training programs, building upon the foundation laid by ALS.
- Employment- Equipped with certification equivalent to formal education, ALS graduates are eligible for a wide range of employment opportunities across various sectors, enhancing their socio-economic prospects.
- Entrepreneurship- ALS instills essential life skills and values that empower graduates to explore entrepreneurial ventures and create livelihood opportunities for themselves and their communities.
- Community Leadership- ALS fosters a sense of empowerment and social responsibility among its graduates, inspiring them to become agents of change and community leaders advocating for education and development.
- Lifelong Learning- Beyond formal education or employment, ALS cultivates a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging graduates to continue seeking knowledge, skills, and personal growth throughout their lives.
Video: ALS para sa senior high school, inihahanda na ng DepEd
This video shows one of the most latest news about Alernative Learning System in the Philippines or known as ALS. This program is also open now to senior high school students who may have dropped out or have not completed their education through traditional schooling levels. ALS programs typically offer flexible learning opportunities, including modules, distance education, and community-based classes, to cater to the needs of learners who may not be able to attend regular school.
According to PTV Philippines News, even Prisoner Students from Pasig City Jail Male and Female Dorms are currently enrolled in this program. ALS is indeed everyone
Summary
DepEd ALS stands as a bridge and opportunity for individuals who have been excluded from the formal education system. By providing accessible, flexible, and dependable learning experiences, ALS empowers its participants to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. Through the concerted efforts of DepEd, ALS facilitators, and the community continues to break barriers, transform lives, and pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.
For more updates, please follow the official Facebook page of DepEd ALS – https://www.facebook.com/OfficialDepEdALS2.0/