Distance learning: a new normal obstacle?

Distance learning: a new normal obstacle?

Christian R. Hulipas

During the first semester of 2020-2021, some of the students from the University of Pangasinan (UPang) encountered various difficulties with modular learning, a distance learning modality.

The first few weeks of this newly established mode of learning was well-accepted at the university, but some students encountered a lot of difficulties. A lot of the students’ concerns were their internet connection, which is the pinnacle of modular and online learning.

According to Claire Dioquino, a third-year BSED student, “Our situation is not fully modular, we still have online meetings with our professors, so what I’ve observed is not everyone can really pull this off. Some just can’t learn independently, some have no gadgets, signals, and/ or internet connection at all; some do not have a learning-conducive environment at home.” Several students did not enroll this semester because they decided to pursue their dreams in another way; some just wanted to be safe.

Since some students have weak internet connections, they would have to pass their modules late and some teachers do understand the situation now, but some do not. The other concern is the submittal time of the modules being answered. One student from the bachelor of secondary education students pointed out that “Modular learning is not just about self-learning and acquiring knowledge from our teachers. It teaches us how to be disciplined and manage our time.”

In accordance with Mr. Justine Troi Castillo from the Center for Student Development and Leadership (CSDL), “Learning must continue, and no student must be left behind. The employment of the teachers might be terminated and because they have families. Not all are in favor of academic freeze. UPang considered academic freeze, but because of the of ‘Kamustahan’ project, an avenue for students to stay connected, the school adjusted to modular learning.” He was also part of the module distribution team along with the GSD, and finance department.

There are a lot of downsides to this new mode of learning– distance, time-consuming, and money. “Maraming kulang sa modules and students won’t have the time to check it because UPang staff won’t allow students to stay long inside the campus to limit the people and prevent the spread of Covid-19. Our staffs have difficulties too.” UPang also partnered with the LGUs and more than 20 towns to distribute modules from different parts of Pangasinan.

According to Antonette Caburian, president of the University of Pangasinan Student Teachers Organization (UPSTO), “For me, modular learning is a lot easier compared to the traditional learning. Instead of traveling to school, I got to do some chores and help around the house. Secondly, I was able to save some money. And lastly, I do not have to iron my uniform and save electric consumptions and I get to spend time with my family. But to be not burdened by modular learning, time management is the most important element of all.”

Flames are looking forward to the end of the Covid-19 pandemic to be able to see their friends at school and have face-to-face classes again– no need to wait in a long line for modules, cope with the lessons and deadlines without a chappy internet connection, and be able to socially connect to protect the mental health.