As a public school teacher , I’ve seen how the Alternative Learning System (ALS) helps people who didn’t finish formal school. ALS is a good example of functional literacy because it teaches reading, writing, math, and life skills that learners can use every day. It’s made for out-of-school youth and adults who want to continue learning.

In ALS, students learn how to read signs, fill out forms, write letters, and even manage small businesses. Lessons are often held in barangay halls, churches, or community centers. The learning is flexible—students don’t have to attend every day, and they can study at their own pace. This is helpful for those who work or take care of their families.

One big strength of ALS is that it’s practical and flexible. Learners feel motivated because they see how lessons help them in real life. Many ALS graduates go on to senior high school, college, or find jobs. It also builds confidence, especially for those who thought they couldn’t go back to school.

But ALS also has some challenges. There are not enough learning materials, and some facilitators need more training. Also, some employers still prefer formal school graduates, which can affect how ALS learners feel about their chances. Another issue is that because ALS is flexible, some students lose motivation and stop attending.

Even with these problems, ALS is a strong example of how education can be inclusive and useful. It shows that learning doesn’t only happen in classrooms—it can happen anywhere, as long as people are willing to grow.

Reference:

Department of Education Philippines. (2023). Alternative Learning System (ALS) Program Overview. Retrieved from www.deped.gov.ph