The education system is one of the most gravely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte stated no opening of classes during this pandemic; “No Vaccine, No Opening of Classes.” But Secretary Briones of the Department of Education (DepEd) insisted on adopting an alternative new normal approach. The proposed opening of classes utilizes technology such as cellphones, tablets, and desktop with internet connectivity, modular and face-to-face, and other forms of instructional materials. Education always plays an essential part in the country’s growth and development (De Guzman, 2020).
Upon talks with advocates of quality education and curriculum experts from DepEd, they decided to adopt a blended learning approach. Blended learning is a learning approach that combines traditional teaching method with online-based instructions.
Addressing the growing belief that this is an entirely fresh approach, Department Secretary Leonor Briones cleared that the country has been practicing distance learning for decades. Several colleges have been giving online modules and tests to their students as part of their curriculum. In spite of this statement, challenges surrounding online learning still persist during the present time. From the standpoint of DepEd, “blended learning” or “hybrid learning” is a fusion of online distant learning and in-person delivery of printed materials to the homes of the learners through the barangays for those who don’t have internet access and interactive facilities in the comforts of their home (Custodio, 2020).
Studying at home surely provides students ease and freedom to do things at their own will and pace. They can manage their time since they can access their modules in advance. If not done wisely, they may end up cramming until the last minute of their deadlines. Hence, this prompts them to practice proper time management at an early age. Compared to traditional setup, blended learning saves more time and resources. Students and teachers can access the modules anytime and anywhere—given that internet signal reaches the area. Blended learning aims for a hassle-free learning with virtual classrooms and online modules. Since students don’t have the same learning styles, teachers often find it hard to sustain their interests, especially if they’re enclosed in a classroom’s four walls. But this changed when blended learning took part in the usual learning setup. Today, teachers can use online activities which include podcasts, videos, and other media types to encourage participation from their students.
By: Andrea T. Galiza| Teacher III| Kalalake Elementary School|Olongapo City
