Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to ensure uninterrupted learning by establishing clear guidelines, standards, and procedures for implementing distance learning during planned or unplanned disruptions to face-to-face instruction. This includes natural disasters, public health emergencies, infrastructure failures, security threats, or other events affecting normal college operations. 

Scope 

This policy applies to: 

  • All students 
  • All teachers and instructional staff 
  • School administrators and technical personnel 
  • Parents/guardians (where applicable) 
  • All academic programs and grade levels 

Definitions 

  • Distance Learning – Instruction delivered remotely using digital platforms, printed modules, or a combination of both. 
  • Learning Management System (LMS) – The primary online platform used to deliver content, assignments, assessments, and communication. 
  • Synchronous Learning – Real-time online instruction using video conferencing tools. 
  • Asynchronous Learning – Learning activities completed by students at their own pace, without real-time interaction. 
  • Blended Learning – A mix of in-person and remote learning modalities. 

Guiding Principles 

  • Continuity of Learning: Instruction must continue despite disruptions. 
  • Flexibility: Accommodate students’ access to technology, internet, and learning environments. 
  • Inclusivity: Provide alternative learning options for students with disabilities or limited connectivity. 
  • Quality Assurance: Maintain instructional rigour, assessment integrity, and curriculum alignment. 
  • Safety: Protect student data privacy and physical well-being. 

Distance Learning Delivery Modalities 

BSMI may use any combination of the following: 

Online Synchronous 

  • Live video lessons (Zoom, Google Meet, MS Teams) 
  • Virtual discussions and collaborative activities 

Online Asynchronous 

  • Pre-recorded lectures 
  • LMS-based activities (Google Classroom, Moodle, Canvas) 
  • Online quizzes and assignments 

Modular Distance Learning 

  • Printed self-learning modules 
  • Offline digital modules (USB/SD cards) 

Blended Distance Learning 

  • Combination of synchronous, asynchronous, and modular methods 

Roles and Responsibilities 

Administrators 

  • Provide the necessary ICT infrastructure 
  • Organize teacher training 
  • Ensure compliance with child protection and data privacy laws 
  • Monitor learning implementation effectiveness 

Teachers 

  • Prepare and deliver instructional materials 
  • Conduct assessments and provide timely feedback 
  • Maintain communication with students and parents 
  • Record attendance and monitor student engagement 

Students 

  • Participate in learning activities 
  • Follow netiquette and LMS rules 
  • Submit assignments on time 
  • Communicate challenges to teachers 

Parents/Guardians 

  • Provide supervision at home when needed 
  • Support students’ access to devices and study schedules 
  • Coordinate with teachers regarding student needs 

ICT Support Staff 

  • Maintain hardware, software, and LMS functionality 
  • Provide technical support to staff and students 

Communication Protocol 

  • Official announcements are released via the school website, email, SMS, or LMS. 
  • Teachers must notify students of schedule changes at least 24 hours in advance whenever possible. 
  • Emergency updates are communicated immediately through all available channels. 

Assessment and Grading 

  • Assessments may be done online or through modular means. 
  • Academic integrity measures (plagiarism detection, proctored exams, timed tests) should be implemented. 
  • Flexible deadlines are encouraged for students facing connectivity challenges. 
  1. Data Privacy and Security
  • All platforms must comply with data privacy regulations. 
  • Students’ personal information must not be shared publicly. 
  • Video sessions must not be recorded without consent. 
  1. Attendance and Participation
  • Synchronous attendance is recorded through login or camera presence. 
  • Asynchronous participation is monitored through activity logs, submission timestamps, or reflection sheets. 
  • Students without connectivity must be given alternative documentation options. 

Contingency Plan 

Activation of Distance Learning 

Distance Learning is activated when: 

  • On-site classes are suspended due to emergencies 
  • Government mandates require remote learning 
  • The school experiences infrastructure issues (power, building, etc.) 

The Principal or Director issues an official notice to activate the contingency plan. 

Contingency Procedures 

Tier 1: Short-Term Disruption (1–3 days) 

  • Teachers shift to asynchronous online tasks 
  • Minimal or no synchronous sessions 
  • Printed modules are deployed if requested 

Tier 2: Medium-Term Disruption (1–2 weeks) 

  • Full implementation of synchronous + asynchronous online classes 
  • Adjusted lesson plans and deadlines 
  • Emergency helpline for ICT support activated 

Tier 3: Long-Term Disruption (Over 2 weeks) 

  • Full distance learning modality 
  • Distribution of devices and connectivity support when possible 
  • Periodic wellness checks on students 
  • Curriculum pacing adjusted to remote mode 

Support Services 

  • Counselling and mental health support available online 
  • Technical helpdesk accessible via phone, email, or chat 
  • Tutorials for parents and students on using LMS tools 

Monitoring and Evaluation 

  • Weekly reports from teachers on student engagement 
  • Monthly review of LMS analytics 
  • End-of-cycle evaluation of distance learning implementation 
  • Adjustments made based on feedback from teachers, students, and families 

Policy Review 

This policy is reviewed annually or as needed following major events that impact school operations.