NAVIGATING EDUCATIONAL METHODS BEFORE AND ONSET OF THE PANDEMIC

KIM JEREMY B. YUMUL

The landscape of education has evolved significantly in recent years, offering students a multitude of pathways to pursue their learning journey. Gone are the days when adherence to a singular institutional method was the only option; now, students have the autonomy to select the approach that best suits their needs and preferences. In this exploration, we delve into the nuances of the contemporary educational system, dissecting its original framework to discern its ideals, strengths, and weaknesses. Moreover, we aim to elucidate the distinction between online and traditional learning paradigms, highlighting the importance of aligning one's educational method with individual preferences to foster academic success.

Before the disruptive onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional learning reigned supreme as the primary mode of education. This approach fostered face-to-face interactions between students and educators, fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability among learners. However, for some students, the rigid structure of traditional learning proved incongruous with their learning styles, leading to disengagement and elevated dropout rates

The implementation of the K-12 educational framework heralded a paradigm shift, ushering in improvements in infrastructure, teacher competency, and community collaboration. However, a retrospective examination of past paradigms remains essential, as encapsulated by the words of Dr. Jose Rizal: "to foretell the destiny of a nation, it is necessary to open the book that tells of her past." This introspection provides valuable insights into crafting effective solutions for the future.

With the advent of the pandemic, traditional learning faced unprecedented challenges, necessitating the exploration of alternative modalities. Online learning emerged as a viable option, leveraging technology to transcend geographical barriers and facilitate remote education. Concurrently, Modular Distance Learning gained prominence as a pragmatic response to the imperatives of social distancing, ensuring educational continuity amidst adversity. This approach, favored by many parents, particularly in rural areas lacking reliable internet connectivity, underscores the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in educational methodologies.

As we navigate the educational landscape before and during the pandemic, let us embrace the ethos of personalized education, charting a course towards holistic learning and personal growth. Moreover, as the pandemic subsides, Modular Learning remains a viable option, especially in environments where traditional classroom settings may be untenable, such as during periods of extreme heat. By empowering students to make informed choices regarding their educational method, we can cultivate a generation of lifelong learners equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.