DepEd issues strict ban on vlogging, learner videos during class hours

DepEd issues strict ban on vlogging, learner videos during class hours

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) Zamboanga has issued a memorandum strictly prohibiting teaching personnel from recording videos, engaging in vlogging activities, or including learners in any video content during class or office hours. The directive aims to maintain a conducive learning environment and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of quality education.

The memo, released recently, highlights concerns that the practice of creating and sharing videos during instructional time causes unnecessary distractions and negatively impacts the focus of both teachers and learners. Furthermore, the inclusion of learners in such recordings raises serious issues regarding privacy, data protection, and their overall well-being.

"The practice of creating and sharing videos during instructional time can cause unnecessary distractions and negatively impact the focus of both teachers and learners. Additionally, the inclusion of learners in such recordings raises concerns regarding privacy, data protection, and their overall well-being," the memo stated.

To uphold professionalism and safeguard the integrity of the educational environment, DepEd Zamboanga has mandated that all teachers:
• Avoid recording or streaming videos for personal or public sharing during class hours.
• Ensure that learners are not included in any vlogs, recordings, or social media content related to personal engagements.
• Prioritize the structured and uninterrupted delivery of lessons.

The directive is grounded in several existing DepEd orders and advisories, including:
• DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012 (Child Protection Policy), emphasizing the protection of learners from exploitation.
• DepEd Order No. 83, s. 2003 (Prohibition on the Use of Mobile Phones and Pagers During Class Hours), reinforcing the need to minimize classroom distractions.
• DepEd Order No. 5, s. 2024 (Policy Guidelines on the Rationalization of Teachers' Workload), ensuring teachers' time is dedicated to instruction.
• DepEd Order No. 8, s. 2023 (Participation of Teachers in Volunteer Work and Extracurricular Activities) reminding teachers that non academic activites should not interefere with teaching, and also to avoid using tiktok in work hours.

The memo also specifically addresses the use of platforms like TikTok during work hours, particularly within school premises and while in uniform, to maintain professionalism.
DepEd Zamboanga has warned that non-compliance with the directive may result in appropriate administrative actions in accordance with DepEd policies and regulations. 

The department has called for wide and immediate dissemination and strict compliance with the memo.

DOWNLOAD MEMO

While this memo is for DepEd Zamboanga, its message is universal, because it enforces existing policies: protect learning environments and student privacy. Vlogging during class hours is unacceptable.