COPING WITH THE NEW NORMAL

Kristine Joy Gozun Cruz

A lot of things have already happened within the past few months. Who would have thought that with the change of the year, we will also need to change our way of living?

Everything got affected because of this pandemic - people, businesses, jobs, industries, agencies, companies, as well as schools, and universities. It's a great set-back. We were not ready. No plans for such a situation, we were stunned with the turn of events. Classes got suspended before the school year ended. Graduation ceremonies were held back to the point that some of the schools just chose to have online graduation rites. Schools got closed in an instant. Who would have thought? Who would have known?

And yet, we are holding on, coping with the situation. The government and the Department of Education together with the teachers are continuously looking for ways on how to ensure the continuity of education across the country. Adjusting the enrolment procedure because of the New Normal. Reaching out to the students and parents about the different modes of enrolment and learning. Administering surveys to gather data about the capability of the students to do online classes. Creating modules and strategic interventional materials for those students who don't have a computer, mobile phone, or any other gadget they can use in learning as well as the internet. Attending webinars to be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective online teacher and to be aware of the platforms that can be used in having classes. Doing all of these while ensuring the safety of everyone.

Considering all the sudden changes, yes, it's difficult, frustrating, and stressful. But we are coping up. We are now in the process of focusing on the transformative aspect of learning. Besides, we in the Philippines are way behind our ASEAN neighbors in terms of distance learning. So, instead of taking it as a negative thing, we should embrace it as a positive step towards the development of virtual learning where both teachers and learners are now effectively and efficiently working together despite the physical distance.

We are trying to get hold of the situation. We may feel hopeless but we are not giving up. Amidst this negativity brought by the pandemic, let's have and maintain a positive way of thinking. Let's try to think that this shall pass as long as we are all united in achieving a common goal.

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The author is Teacher III at Rodolfo V. Feliciano Memorial High School