UI Rector, Ari Kuncoro on the TVRI Channel: “Learning during Covid-19”
Hana Fajria ~ PR of FEB UI
Jakarta – Rector of Universitas Indonesia Prof. Ari Kuncoro, Ph.D, was interviewed on the TVRI Jakarta channel, together with education observer Darmaningtyas, and host Reska Herlambang, in a Perspective Dialogue, Monday, August 10 2020, 17.00 to 18.00 WIB.
“In today’s adjustment and adaptation period, we (UI) have prepared an online learning system since the first wave of Covid-19 hit. Our readiness for the second wave is still being carried out, such as technical support and individual abilities.” said Ari Kuncoro, starting the Sudut Pandang dialogue with the topic “Learning Systems during the Covid-19 Period.”
“UI uses a blended learning system, namely the implementation of online and face-to-face systems. With the health protocols in place, it is impossible for the class to be at 100% capacity. Thus, the students take turns, while half of them study in class, the other half study in groups at home online. Lecturers do not need to always teach in the classroom, they can also teach from home, especially for those who are older, keep wearing masks and keep a safe distance.”Prof. Ari said.
According to Darmaningtyas, “In reality, a strategy is needed to conduct online learning in rural areas with a lack of internet networks, as well as the ability for students to study online as high school students and their younger fellows are still technologically challenged. To meet these needs, several ministries such as Kominfo, Kemendikbud, and Kemendes to reallocate funds and assistance to villages need to be involved.” she said.
For the admission of new students during the pandemic, Prof. Ari explained the technical implementation of the new student admission process, where students are required to come to the location to take exams online by implementing health protocols, while UI increases the number of supervisors and checks report cards to avoid exam jockeys.
The Covid-9 pandemic has not prevented academics from innovating. UI educators and students already have disinfectant booths, ventilators, and social policies to face the pandemic. “This is an innovation momentum for submitting proposals that can be prioritized by synergizing existing tools, which are supported by UI research funds and in collaboration with other institutions. As researchers, we must also have a socio-entrepreneurial character, and this moment requires interdisciplinarity, opening barriers between faculties and between fields. This is what is known as an academic gathering, the cooperation between faculties,” Prof. Ari concluded . (hjtp)
