The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic had greatly impacted everyone around the globe. It has changed our lives drastically, and our way of life has greatly shifted from the things that we were all accustomed to as we navigate towards the so called “new normal.” One of the many areas that is greatly affected by this pandemic is the education sector, as it has changed the lives of students, teachers, stakeholders, and institutions. For a long time, the usual face-to-face classes were suspended indefinitely, and the school gates and doors remain closed. However, as the need for adjustments and adaptations arise, substantial changes in the field of education must be made. This gave rise to the implementation of the Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) of Instruction by the Department of Education (DepEd).
Below are some key aspects of how education evolved during the pandemic:
1. Transition to Online Learning and the use of Digital Platforms: With the closing of schools to prevent and avoid the spread of the virus, there was an unprecedented shift to online distance learning. Different platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, and other digital platforms and resources became essential tools for conducting classes and sharing educational materials and resources.
2. Modular Distance Learning: Due to the reasons that some of the students could not afford to have their own electronic devices or even afford internet service, or some live in remote and rural areas, learning modules both printed or non- printed, were developed and created for the use of the students. It includes lessons, learning activities, and answer keys.
Adaptations in the Teaching and Learning Process
1. Innovative Teaching Methods: Educators/Teachers had to quickly adapt their teaching methods, approaches, and strategies to suit digital or online formats, often integrating multimedia resources, interactive assignments and simulations, and virtual laboratories/workrooms to keep students engaged.
2. Self-Paced Learning: The transition to online/modular learning provided greater flexibility in learning. Students could frequently do schoolwork at their own pace and preference, which helped some but posed difficulties for others who required more structured learning environment.
Challenges Encountered
1. Digital Divide: The transition uncovered and exacerbated existing disparities in access to technology and the internet. Many students, particularly those from low-income families and those who are living in rural areas, suffered with a lack
of electronic devices and reliable/stable internet connectivity.
2. Learning Loss and Academic Progress: There were significant concerns about
learning loss, especially for younger students and those with special needs. Many
students faced disruptions and hindrances in their education, leading to
deficiencies in knowledge and skills.
3. Mental Health Issues: The pandemic has kept everyone mostly confined at their homes. This prevented everyone from having personal and physical connections and interactions with other people. The isolation and stress caused by the pandemic has negatively impacted not only the physical well-being of students and teachers, but more so with their mental health. Schools and educators had to find ways to support the overall well-being of their communities.
Positive Outcomes and Innovations
1. Increased Digital Literacy: Both students and teachers had greatly enhanced their digital skills, which they can use in the future. The use of digital tools for education has become more common and acceptable.
2. Global Collaboration: The pandemic encouraged collaboration across all borders, with educators and stakeholders working together through sharing of resources and best practices. This has resulted in a more linked worldwide educational community.
3. Investment in Educational Technology: There was a significant increase in investment in educational and instructional technology. Governments, private sectors, and non-profit organizations invested in developing and delivering digital learning tools and resources to support remote education.
Future of Education
1. Hybrid Learning Models: The pandemic has opened our eyes to the wonders of different digital platforms and has also accelerated the adoption of hybrid learning models, combining online and in-person classes. This approach is expected to continue, offering flexibility, continuity, and resilience against future disruptions of classes.
2. Focus on Equity and Inclusion: The crisis emphasized the need for greater educational equity and equality. Collective efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensuring that all children have access to a quality education are likely to remain a priority.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically transformed education, bringing in both challenges and opportunities. The experience has led to long-term changes in how education is delivered and has highlighted the importance of adaptability, continuity, resilience, and equity in the educational system. It is also an eye-opener to different factors that may cause disruptions to education in the future, even if it is something that may be invisible to the eyes.
