The digital transformation of education prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic has led higher education institutions to enhance their online learning frameworks, driving them to provide quality education outside the traditional classroom. A testament to these efforts is the University of Santo Tomas (UST), which earned a silver ranking in the inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) Online Learning Rankings. Released on December 10, these rankings highlight the excellence and innovation in online education provided by UST, positioning it among the top in the sphere of digital learning.
UST’s Performance in THE Online Learning Rankings
UST’s Silver Ranking Achievement
Achieving a silver ranking, UST was the sole representative from the Philippines in the inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) Online Learning Rankings. The university’s notable accomplishment in these rankings was determined by comprehensive metrics evaluating the quality of online education delivered by participating institutions. UST scored 49.4 in resources, 66.0 in engagement, 50.5 in outcomes, and 50.3 in the environment metrics. This placement reflects the university’s dedication to maintaining a high standard of education through its hybrid approach even post-COVID-19.
The rankings were categorized into gold, silver, and bronze tiers. UST’s performance demonstrated significant resource allocation, student engagement, and consistent positive outcomes. Out of 56 schools ranked, 11 were placed in the gold tier, 14 in the silver tier, and 31 in the bronze tier. Alongside UST, another Philippine institution, Mapua University, participated but only achieved reporter status, which implies it did not meet the full entry requirements for the actual ranking. These rankings underscore the performance of schools based on extensive student surveys while ensuring the exclusion of responses from students below 18 and instances of anomalously high scores.
Measurements and Metrics
Institutions were evaluated on four principal areas: resources, engagement, outcomes, and the overall environment. For resources, criteria like financial allocation per student, faculty-to-student ratios, and professional development hours per staff were examined. Engagement metrics focused on program availability, student interaction with faculty, ease of use, accessibility for disabled students, and overall convenience. Outcomes were assessed based on student recommendations and progression rates, while the environment was judged by support staff availability per student, connectivity support, availability of offline resources, and diversity aspects such as student inclusion for disabilities, age diversity, and staff gender diversity.
Asst. Prof. Nestor Ong, leading UST’s QS/THE Rankings team, explained that UST’s score is a result of their steadfast commitment to improving their online teaching methodologies. They continued enhancing their hybrid learning approach developed in response to the pandemic. The university has invested significantly in faculty training programs, state-of-the-art technological tools, and comprehensive student support services. These efforts reflect UST’s proactive stance on adapting to the evolving educational landscape through sustained commitment and targeted investments in its online education infrastructure.
Commitment to Ongoing Excellence
Pioneering E-Learning at UST
UST’s recognition in the THE Online Learning Rankings can be attributed to its history as a pioneer in e-learning, having implemented various online educational initiatives since 2002. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the institution adopted an enriched virtual mode to continue education seamlessly. This approach has persisted as part of their hybrid setup to ensure continuous access to quality education for all students. UST’s adoption of Canvas as its new learning management system in 2023, replacing the previous Blackboard system, showcases its dedication to adopting advanced technologies to enhance online learning experiences.
In this transition, UST has made considerable efforts to train faculty members in utilizing new technologies effectively and to provide robust support systems for students navigating through online platforms. These initiatives ensure that both teaching and learning processes are streamlined, user-friendly, and capable of meeting the diverse needs of its academic community. The university’s strategic planning and execution in integrating technology with traditional learning paradigms play a significant role in its success in the online educational realm.
Sustained Investment and Future Prospects
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation in education, compelling higher education institutions to refine their online learning systems. This shift aims to provide high-quality education that extends beyond traditional classroom settings. A notable example of this advancement is the University of Santo Tomas (UST), which has been recognized for its efforts in this area. UST achieved a silver ranking in the inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) Online Learning Rankings, announced on December 10. This recognition underscores the university’s commitment to excellence and innovation in online education, placing it among the leaders in digital learning. Through dedicated efforts, UST has managed to enhance its online education offerings, meeting the demands of modern students and adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic. This accolade not only highlights UST’s current achievements but also sets a benchmark for other institutions looking to excel in the rapidly evolving landscape of online education.
