Sixteen student-teacher volunteers from the University of St. La Salle (USLS) are bringing their classrooms online as they take part in Phase 9 of the e-BRIDGE International Digital Learning Program of Education for an Interdependent World (EDIW), an EU-supported initiative that connects young educators and learners across countries.
Over eight consecutive Saturdays, the USLS volunteers will meet virtually with children from challenged and underserved communities, conducting learning sessions through Zoom focused on literacy, English proficiency, and science. Beyond the lessons, the program creates a space for the volunteers and learners to exchange perspectives and experiences across different cultures.
Representing various colleges of the University, the volunteers are Allan Ranz Berdejo, Patricia Loraine Barena, Kaila Louise Asis, Elyssa Reese Pontino, Ariana Mary Janeo, Patricia Nicole Mead, Gabriel Elizaga, Erich Shayne Tugaff, Ella Dyan Espulgar, Jocela Mariz Elgario, Jirah Lorien Liquez, Fre Anne Grandia, Alliyah Eyesha Caunga, Joren Ashley Cañonero, Cathleen Joy Cordero, and Angelian Learp Carlos. Their participation is facilitated by the Center for Linkages and International Affairs (CLIA).
The eight-week virtual program gives the student-teachers an opportunity to put their teaching knowledge into practice in an international setting. As they work with learners from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds, they will further develop their digital teaching, communication, collaboration, and adaptability skills while contributing their time and expertise to communities with limited access to learning opportunities.
Through the e-BRIDGE Program, USLS continues to expand learning opportunities beyond the physical classroom and strengthen its students’ exposure to international and intercultural experiences. The initiative also reflects the University’s commitment to developing future educators who can connect, collaborate, and contribute through education across borders.