The Role of Parents in the Modular Distance Learning

Andy C. Brimon

Since the classroom has shifted from the four corners of the classroom to the comfort of both teachers and students’ homes, parents now play an important role under the new normal modular distance learning.

However, this does not mean that parents would become replacements for the teachers’ responsibilities. Below are the primary roles of parents under the modular distance learning system.

First, parents should be responsible for interacting with teachers, barangay representatives, and other stakeholders to acquire the various materials and resources needed by the learner (i.e., modules or textbooks).

Second, parents should regularly check the child’s workweek plan and make sure that the learner sticks to their schedule.

Third, parents should prepare a conducive learning study space for the student. Lastly, parents should give appropriate praises, encouragement, and rewards to heighten their child’s motivation to learn.

Unfortunately, there are some potential obstacles with parents and/or guardians as they try to fulfill their roles. We have to admit that parents and guardians have varying skills, knowledge, and qualifications. To address this situation, teachers should aid parents to ensure the content’s uniformity, equality, and quality.

Another challenge pertains to children’s ability to learn by imitation. It may be intentionally or unintentionally shown or taught by the parents, depending on their understanding of a particular lesson or subject matter. One instance can be when a creationist parent (a parent who religiously believes that all things originated from divine creation) is against their child learning a science lesson on evolution.

The final challenge of learning falls under children having preferred teachers at home. They choose who will assist them with their lessons and assignments. Some children like to be taught by their mother or father, or sometimes by their older siblings. Learners learn better when there is a suitable and safe space for learning.

With all these challenges, teachers should always be by their students and parents' side to guide and assist them.

--oOo-

The author is Teacher III at Malauli Elementary School, Masantol South

District