Written by Jeffry Carillo

Amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, the University of the Philippines (UP) Board of Regents resorted to a decision to push through this academic year 2020-2021 through remote learning. Following the order, UP provided some services to assist students for the shift to virtual learning. UP Mail and SAIS was provided to incoming freshies, despite being relatively delayed. Canvas (upm.instructure.com) was also selected by the administration to complement the UPM Virtual Learning Environment (UPMVLE). Through this platform, instructors can upload asynchronous lessons and activities to their students. Students, however, still experienced issues because of the delayed rollout of these resources to the students.

Other benefits of the UP email include free access to Zoom and Google Classroom. The UP Information Technology and Development Center (UP ITDC) faced criticisms for downgrading Zoom for Education accounts for UP students earlier this semester. To get premium features, a student must first apply for student organization privilege. Students, however, can still record their meetings for asynchronous viewing. On the other hand, Google Classroom remains free and reliable and can also be used for video calls in Google Meet. However, the usage of multiple learning management systems requires students to regularly check all three sites.

Aside from the UP System mail, UP Manila also enrolls students to its Authentication and Directory Services (ADS). Originally used to connect to in-campus Wi-Fi networks, ADS also now gives access to UP Manila’s learning resources including the Integrated Library System (iLib). Students can use the UPM proxy network to access hundreds of journals and scholarly works without paying subscription fees.

Furthermore, the school initiated projects to ensure the needs of its constituents. The Student Wellness System and Network was formed to evaluate the administration’s remote learning policies, especially on the health of its students. Student services were also made online such as the the Student Helpdesk and Guidance, where social workers and expert counsellors can provide academic, emotional, mental, and legal support for the students who need an extra hand. For further information and support, you may contact the UP Manila Office of Student Affairs and the UPM CAS Office of Student Services through their Facebook pages.