10. WHAT IS ALTERNATIVE LEARNING
SYSTEM OR ALS?
It is a parallel learning system in the Philippines that provides a
practical option to the existing formal instruction. When one
does not have or cannot access formal education in schools,
ALS is an alternate or substitute. ALS includes both the non-
formal and informal sources of knowledge and skills.
11. Many Filipinos do not have a chance to attend and
finish formal basic education (Grades 1-6 and Year 1-4)
due to many reasons. Some drop out from schools
while some do not have schools in their communities.
Since every Filipino has a right to free basic education,
the Government establishes ALS to provide all Filipinos
the chance to have access to and complete basic
education in a mode that fits their distinct situations and
needs.
WHY IS THERE A NEED FOR ALTERNATIVE
LEARNING SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES?
12. HOW DOES ALS WORK?
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.
13. Non-Formal Education
(NFE)
Happens outside the classroom, community-based, usually
conducted at community learning centers, barangay multi-
purpose hall, libraries or at home, managed by ALS learning
facilitators, such as mobile teachers, district ALS Coordinators,
instructional managers at an agreed schedule and venue
between the learners and facilitators.
14. Ways to make it learner-centered:
Create a safe and
inclusive learning
environment
Use a variety of
teaching
strategies that
cater to different
learning styles
and preferences
Provide opportunities
for learners to apply
their learning in real-
world contexts, by
linking the learning
outcomes to practical
and relevant situations
Assess learners'
learning
outcomes using a
variety of
assessment
tools.
15. Informal Education
(InfEd)
A non-formal type of education that focuses on practical skills
and real-life applications. It happens through various modes of
delivery, such as face-to-face classes, online learning, and
blended learning. InfEd classes are usually conducted in
community centers, barangay halls, or other accessible
locations in the community.
16. Ways to make it learner-centered:
Create
opportunities for
learners to
pursue their
interests and
passions
Use a variety of
resources and
learning tools that
cater to different
learning styles
and preferences
Provide opportunities
for learners to
document and share
their learning progress,
by creating digital
portfolios or blogs.
Provide learners
with opportunities
for self-directed
learning and
reflection.
17. The Mobile Teacher
Specifically targets learners in remote or underserved areas, where
traditional schools are not available or accessible. Under the Mobile
Teacher program, trained teachers are deployed to remote areas to
conduct classes and provide learning materials to learners. These
teachers are called "mobile teachers" because they travel from one
location to another to reach their learners. They often use non-
traditional teaching methods such as storytelling, games, and
interactive activities to make learning more engaging and effective.
also provides access to other learning resources such as textbooks,
workbooks, and audiovisual materials. In addition, the program
offers vocational skills training and livelihood programs to help
learners develop skills that can help them earn a living.
18. Ways to make it learner-centered:
Flexible seating:
Provide flexible seating
arrangements. This could
include chairs, stools, or
cushions that can be easily
moved around to create
different groupings or to
allow students to work
independently.
Learning stations:
These stations can be
focused on different
subjects or activities,
and students can move
around the classroom
to engage with them.
Active learning strategies:
it is important to use active
learning strategies that engage
students and promote critical
thinking. These could include
group work, problem-based
learning, or hands-on activities
that allow students to explore and
discover.
Technology
integration:
Teachers can use
tablets, laptops, or
other devices to move
around the classroom,
interact with students,
and provide
personalized
instruction.