As institutions gradually cope with the unprecedented effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, Centro Escolar University (CEU) reveals how the community remains inspired and empowered amidst the challenges of the lockdown and quarantine.
Established in 1907, which was originally known as Centro Escolar de Señoritas from a small school in Azcarraga, has grown to become one of the top universities in the country today. Now known as Centro Escolar University (CEU), it has gone far beyond its founders' vision, building steps towards dreams and goals of the Filipino youth, delivering quality education in three campuses, carrying over 50 academic programs.
With the abrupt changes and restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, learning institutions across the globe struggle to find ways to adjust and innovate to ensure the delivery of quality education. With the CEU LMS called CEU-LEAPS in place long before the lock down, CEU was nimble to manage the universal educational turmoil to its equilibrium. Amidst this, University President and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina shares, “This time of COVID-19 is really the most trying time, but has also been an opportunity for learning—learn to be agile, learn to be resilient.“ Dr. Padolina reflects, “As abrupt changes and challenges force the community to find ways to continue efficient and effective delivery for the completion of the semester, we collectively navigate through bumps, potholes and sharp curves, and learn how to best ‘bounce back’ along the way. Every challenge is a growth opportunity, and with these forced changes, we can go beyond survival and prosper as a community.”
With this direction, CEU implemented the use of a Learning Management System where students are able to access and complete learning courses such as English Language Learning (ELL), and even found ways to avail of a secure online platform when taking globally recognized tests like the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC), all in the safety of their homes. Through the guidance of Dr. Teresa R. Perez, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Escolarians saw the exceptional school year through, and are able to continue accessing supplementary modules and learning programs online and offline, all while staying safe at home during a lockdown.
As the pandemic forces Filipinos to observe strict physical distancing, the recent shift to online platforms marked the digital transformation of assessments such as TOEIC, and the high demand of online services for administrators and students alike. As the sole provider of TOEIC in the country, Hopkins International Partners, Inc. came prepared for the transition of the test from paper-based, to secure online testing.
The Test of English for International Communication, or TOEIC, is one of the most widely used and respected English-language assessments in the world. The test is recognized by thousands of multinational companies including LG Electronics, Shell, Accenture, and Canon. TOEIC certifies language learners of their English level, giving them the option to pursue a career or education here in the Philippines or in other countries. TOEIC also provides learning institutions a blueprint for necessary curriculum review, enabling administrators to pinpoint skills that may need strengthening and improvement.
With both hands on the wheel and raring to go, CEU inspires agility and resiliency as it empowers its community with access to English Language Learning and the global credential TOEIC, even through these exceptional times.