Shifting to Dakila: The Gender Transformative Online Learning Platform in the Time of the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

DaKILa or Data, Knowledge, and Information Launcher is a Moodlecloud platform and the first asynchronous learning tool in the Philippines solely dedicated to training and capacity development programs geared toward gender mainstreaming. The University of the Philippines Center for Women's and Gender Studies Training, Outreach, and Extension Program (TOEP) conceptualized DaKILa in April 2020 as a response to the restrictions of holding in-person training due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gender Responsive Planning and Budgeting, Gender Sensitivity Training, and the Angat Bayi Political Empowerment Fellowship Program were redesigned with synchronous and asynchronous sessions to ensure the continuity of gender-related training offerings. New courses like Psychosocial Support for Frontlines, Engendering Social Solidarity Economy, and Training for Telecommunicators on How to Handle VAWC Cases were offered. Training participants include faculty and staff from higher educational institutions, women elected officials, and personnel from government and private local and international agencies. However, shifting to remote learning was not without challenges, as it was not as simple as reformulating what was already available. The TOEP team needed to consider the affordances and limitations involved in creating new learning environments for the TOEP team, adult learners, resource persons, and facilitators. While there have been positive comments about incorporating educational technologies, many participants found it challenging to use DaKILa and work at their own pace due to tasks in a work-from-home arrangement and office-related concerns. A stable internet connection has remained a concern for many participants, especially those from rural areas. Continuous adjustments were made based on participants' and resource persons' suggestions and reflections of the TOEP team. Despite the challenges, DaKILa demonstrates the University's unwavering commitment to promoting women's empowerment and gender equality even during uncertain times.