Regulate rather than ban vlogging among teachers - expert

Metro Manila, Philippines - Vlogging among teachers should be regulated rather than banned, an education expert said.

In an interview with NewsWatch Plus, Lizamarie Olegario, associate professor at the University of the Philippines, said vlogging can be integrated in the learning environment without causing disruption.

Olegario shared insights in line with a recent memorandum by the Zamboanga del Sur division of the Department of Education that prohibited teachers from vlogging or recording videos during office and class hours.

The order said the practice may cause “unnecessary distractions” and “raise concerns” on student privacy.

Olegario said vlogging can be allowed as long as it has educational value.

“The video recorder (cellphone or cam) should not be held by the teacher as doing so distracts attention. It should be stationed where the face of the teacher is seen, not of the students. Again, participation should be optional,” she said.

She noted the need for parental consent and student approval since most basic education learners are minors.

Olegario also said it becomes an ethical issue if the content creation is for profit.

“If the content does not have educational value, it causes classroom distraction,” she said.

In a chance interview on Monday, March 10, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the agency will review the need to form a nationwide policy on vlogging.

“Maybe we can see how things can develop first before we get too strict or too lenient about that,” he said.