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, CEU has grown to become one of the top universities in the country today. It has gone far beyond its founders' vision—building steps towards dreams and goals of the Filipino youth, delivering quality education in three campuses, and 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 in ensuring the delivery of quality education. With the University’s Learning Management System (LMS) called CEU LEAPS (Learning Engagement and Proficiency System) in place long before the lockdown, CEU was readily adept 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. To know more about TOEIC, you may visit the Hopkins International Partners official Facebook page @toeic.hopkins and http://www.hopkins.ph.
Also, you may visit the official website of the University at www.ceu.edu.ph and follow CEU on Facebook at www.facebook.com/theCEUofficial and on Twitter at @CEUmanila, @CEU_makati05, and @CEUMalolos.