A WALL HiNDERiNG POSiTiVE BONDS

Following the enforcement of DepEd Order No. 49, which now limits teacherstudent interaction, a variety of complaints have been made by both students and teachers as the order appears to restrict the instructors’ to build positive relationships with their students. Now it seems as though there’s a wall separating the learners from their closest friend and their second parent.

The amendment aims to advance educators’ professionalism and include it throughout all aspects of their employment. Instead of enforcing professionalism, the order is more like a constraint that places more weight on a teacher and makes it more challenging for them to advance.

The terms of Republic Act No. 6713, commonly known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, were also recalled to the department’s officials and staff members. They were also told to abstain from any associations or pursuits that would interfere with their capacity to make “objective judgements” regarding the fulfillment of their

by: Lea Lim

particular duties.

Engaging with the learners outside of school premises may help the instructors know more about them and better understand their students; it opens a door for new interactions and build a positive relationship.

It is ironic that the DepEd rule forbids instructors from communicating with students through social media because they were urged to do so when the virus severely afflicted the country. Under the pretense of fostering professionalism, it’s as though a chain is being put around them that prevents them from using media to improve communication.

It has given students cause to think twice about talking to their teachers. Given the issued order, it might be challenging for educators to provide high-quality instruction and for learners to voice their concerns about matters pertaining to their education. It not only served as a wall that separates both but also broke any potential beneficial ties between a teacher and a student.